Dr. Lauri Pulkkinen

Emeritus Professor

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Biography

Lauri Pulkkinen is a structural virologist working in Professor Richard Lundmark’s group at Umeå University, focusing on understanding how the tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) rearranges host cell membranes during infection. His research is aimed at uncovering the fundamental biological processes at an atomic level, thereby providing insights for future medical interventions. As a postdoctoral fellow, he employs advanced structural biology techniques, including cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM), to study membrane remodeling events and characterize the dynamics involved in TBEV infection. Prior to this, he completed his PhD at the University of Helsinki in Professor Sarah Butcher’s group, where he focused on the structural details of TBEV virion assembly and maturation processes, achieving significant advancements in understanding these mechanisms through cryo-EM. In his free time, Lauri enjoys skateboarding, miniature wargames, birdwatching, and reading comics.

Research Interests

Experience

Postdoctoral Fellow

— Present

Umeå University • Umeå, Sweden

Researching the biological processes involved in tick-borne encephalitis virus infection, specifically focusing on membrane remodeling.

Requirements for Umeå University

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:2.5
IELTS
Listening
Required:5.5
Reading
Required:5.5
Writing
Required:5.5
Speaking
Required:5.5
Overall
Required:6.5
TOEFL
Writing
Required:20
Total
Required:90
PTE
Overall
Required:62
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree (180 ECTS) in relevant field At least 90 ECTS in the main subject area
Application Checklist
  • Bachelor's degree certificate
  • Transcripts of records
  • Proof of English proficiency
  • Copy of passport
  • Letter of Motivation (certain programs)
  • CV (certain programs)
Specialization Notes

Requirements are standard for Master's programs across Social Sciences and Humanities at Umeå. English 6 proficiency is the general rule.