Associate Professor Ivo Laidmäe is the new head of the Institute of Pharmacy

At the 11 September meeting, the council of the Institute of Pharmacy elected Associate Professor of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology Ivo Laidmäe as the new head of the institute.

Ivo Laidmäe says that, first of all, the changes already initiated at the institute must be completed. The most important is launching a new curriculum for pharmacists and assistant pharmacists to replace the current five-year integrated curriculum. “The new curriculum will offer more flexible options. In the future, graduates can already start working as assistant pharmacists after three years of study. Those with deeper interest and motivation can continue in a two-year master’s curriculum to qualify as pharmacists.”

Another major task is designing the new academic and research building at Maarjavälja, which will also house the Institute of Pharmacy with its modern laboratories. “Laboratories are essential to raise the level of scientific research and teach in conditions that comply with modern safety requirements and standards.”

Laidmäe also emphasises the importance of the teaching staff and students of the institute. “We are soon facing a generational shift among teaching staff, which means we must find and employ new, motivated people. We must also support students to ensure they complete their studies.”

Ivo Laidmäe graduated from the University of Tartu in pharmacy in 2003 and earned his doctoral degree here in 2012. His research focuses on applying the electrospinning technology for tissue regeneration, wound healing, and drug delivery systems.

Ivo Laidmäe’s term of office as the head of the institute lasts from 15 September 2025 to 14 September 2028.