Karin Valmsen

Karin Valmsen is a Research Fellow at Tallinn University of Technology's School of Science, Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, with a fractional appointment (0.10 FTE) since January 2025. She also holds a Research Fellow position (0.50 FTE) at the National Institute of Chemical Physics and Biophysics since January 2024. Her academic career spans over three decades with continuous research contributions in biochemistry and chemistry.

Dr. Valmsen completed her education at Tartu University (Diploma in Bioorganic Chemistry, 1986), followed by a Master's degree in Gene Technology from Tallinn Technical University (1999), and a Doctoral degree from Tallinn University of Technology (2007). Her doctoral research focused on 'Prostaglandin synthesis in the coral Plexaura homomalla: Control of prostaglandin stereochemistry at carbon 15 by cyclooxygenases' under the supervision of Nigulas Samel.

Dr. Valmsen's research primarily focuses on biochemistry with emphasis on lipid metabolism, prostaglandin synthesis pathways, and marine organism biochemistry. Her work has significantly contributed to understanding cyclooxygenase enzymes in corals and other marine invertebrates, revealing evolutionary insights into eicosanoid biosynthesis. She has also expanded her research to metalloproteomics and biomaterials development in recent years.

Her publication record shows a consistent research trajectory from marine biochemistry toward broader biochemical applications. Early work centered on coral prostaglandin synthesis, while more recent publications address metal-binding proteins, insulin fibrillization, and antimicrobial biomaterials. This evolution demonstrates her ability to apply fundamental biochemical principles to diverse biological systems and practical applications.

• National Prize for Chemistry and Molecular Biology in 2002, 'Biosynthesis of Prostaglandins in Invertebrates'

As an academic supervisor, Dr. Valmsen has guided Master's students, including Hegne Pupart's work on 'Expression, purification and characterization of human superoxide dismutase 1 protein.' She has participated in numerous research projects, including 'Metal-phenolic network-coated nanoparticles for sustainable metal recycling' (2024-2028) as a team member, and previously contributed to projects like 'Structural and medical metalloproteomics' and 'Bioactive lipids - metabolism, signalling and regulation.'

Throughout her career, Dr. Valmsen has been actively involved with the Estonian Chemical Society and Estonian Biochemical Society, contributing to the scientific community through committee work for thesis defenses and student competitions.