Maria Kaukonen

Maria Kaukonen is a University Researcher at the Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, with affiliations to Helsinki One Health (HOH). She serves as a supervisor for the Doctoral Programme in Integrative Life Science and the Doctoral Programme in Clinical Veterinary Medicine.

Her research spans genetics, developmental biology, physiology, and veterinary science, focusing on CRISPR-based therapies for eye diseases, canine genetic disorders, and comparative models of human diseases. Notable projects include studies on feline atherosclerosis, CPT1A gene variants in dog cataracts, and the comprehensive canine gene expression atlas (DoGA consortium).

Recent grants include funding from the University of Helsinki Funds (€4,000), Mary and Georg C. Ehrnrooths Foundation (€56,250), Sigrid Jusélius Foundation (€26,450), and Evald and Hilda Nissi Foundation (€12,000). Her work intersects with multiple research areas, including otorhinolaryngology, ophthalmology, and genetic therapies.