Pille-Riin Laanet

Pille-Riin Laanet is a Research Fellow and PhD candidate at Tallinn University of Technology's School of Science, Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology. Her work focuses on analytical chemistry, phytochemical screening, and anti-Borrelia agent discovery. She has held research roles since 2021 with varying commitments (0.10–0.50 FTE).

Education: PhD in Chemistry and Biotechnology (since 2021), MSc in Applied Chemistry and Biotechnology (2021, cum laude), BSc in Applied Chemistry and Biotechnology (2019). Completed primary and secondary education at Tallinn Technical Gymnasium and Tallinn Secondary School of Science.

Research interests include phytochemical analysis, antioxidant activity, and the development of analytical methods for cannabinoids and natural products. Her work combines instrumental analysis (e.g., chromatography) with microbiological studies to evaluate plant-derived compounds' medicinal potential.

Publications (2021–2024) focus on phytochemical screening, anti-Borrelia agents, and method development for cannabinoid analysis. Notable awards include recognition for anti-Borrelia research (2023) and a best poster award at FEBS3+ 2022.

Grants include leadership in evaluating plant extracts' antioxidant/antibacterial activity (€225k, 2022–2025) and a study on Estonian pollen composition (€16k, 2025). Supervises two master's students: Eva-Liisa Tiru (pollen bioactives) and Regina Drošnova (Plantago phytochemicals).

Engages in science communication through workshops like 'An Hour in the Forensics Lab' for high school students and 'Colorful and Glowing Molecules' at public events.