New CMO of Sartar – Dr. Jussi Koivunen

Dr. Jussi Koivunen, a professor of oncology at the University of Oulu, a specialist in cancer diseases and an experienced drug developer took up the position as Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of Sartar this week. In December 2025, the Duodecim Medical Association awarded Jussi as “Scientific pioneer who advances research and changes the world with the power of knowledge”.

Jussi brings a doctor’s perspective to Sartar’s research planning and implementation. He is also responsible for ensuring that the development work meets the requirements of the authorities. The Chief Medical Officer is a special role in drug development that is needed when studies move into the clinical phase. At this stage, Sartar’s CMO role is part-time, meaning Jussi’s research and patient work in Oulu will continue as before.

“We are very pleased to have Jussi join our team! Jussi is a strong expert in oncology and brings a lot of patient-oriented clinical expertise to Sartar, which we need as we move towards the clinical phase,” says Sartar CEO Mikael Maksimow.

Jussi is an old friend of Sartar’s Development Director Maria Lahtinen. “I am really happy to be working with Jussi again. I know him as a reliable team player, with whom it has always been easy to collaborate and find solutions for the best interests of patients, taking into account the specific characteristics of the studies.”

Welcome Jussi!