Guest Scientist Visit: Joonas P. Lehikoinen, MD, from the University of Helsinki

On April 28th, 2025, we had the pleasure of welcoming Joonas P. Lehikoinen, MD, from the University of Helsinki to the ZMB in Kiel, invited by Andre Franke. Joonas is a specialized physician in Neurology and, as a PhD student in Professor Pentti Tienari’s research group, part of the Translational Immunology Research Program (TRIMM).

His research focuses on the role of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in multiple sclerosis, with particular expertise in EBV immunology and genetics. In his talk, titled “Complete Epstein-Barr virus genomes from multiple sclerosis patients and controls demonstrate high degree of virus strain variation”, Joonas shared fascinating insights into EBV strain diversity—sparking a lively and thought-provoking discussion. During his stay, he also met with colleagues from the Institute of Clinical Molecular Biology (IKMB). The scientific exchange was dynamic and inspiring, with promising ideas for future collaboration already on the table.