IN MEMORIAM. Ain-Elmar Kaasik

The community of Estonian neurologists, neurosurgeons and researchers has suffered a painful loss – on 30 January, the distinguished scientist, teacher of several generations of doctors, and respected physician, Professor Ain-Elmar Kaasik, passed away.

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After graduating from university, Ain-Elmar Kaasik began work as a neurologist at Põltsamaa Hospital. From 1961 onwards, his clinical and academic career unfolded at the neurology clinic in Tartu, where he served as head of the neurointensive care unit, neurosurgeon, lecturer, researcher and long-standing head of the clinic. Over the decades, he also fulfilled societal and administrative duties as vice dean and dean of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Tartu, as well as a chair and a member of various decision-making bodies.

Kaasik devoted decades to research and teaching. In 1975, he was appointed as a professor, in 1993, he was elected a member of the Estonian Academy of Sciences, and in 2004, its vice president. His scientific work was remarkable: he published more than 500 research papers and was the most cited Estonian researcher between 1976 and 1980. He also served as visiting professor at several European and American universities, was awarded an honorary doctorate by Uppsala University and was a member of international scientific organisations and research groups. Sixteen doctoral theses were defended under his supervision.

Ain-Elmar Kaasik’s research focused mainly on vascular diseases of the brain and on the epidemiology and risk factors of neurological disorders. He received numerous scientific awards and recognitions and was named an honorary citizen of the City of Tartu.

Professor Kaasik’s contribution to the development of Estonian neurology and neurosurgery is invaluable. He was a great role model to colleagues and students, thanks both to his exceptional capacity for work and to his wide-ranging clinical and academic achievements.

University of Tartu Faculty of Medicine
Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery of the Institute of Clinical Medicine