Laura Pirkola, PhD, is a Senior R&D Manager at Fazer, a leading Finnish food industry company in bakery, confectionery, and plant-based foods. Laura completed her industrial PhD project at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) in 2023, where she investigated the effects of whole grain and dietary fiber on gut microbiota composition and functioning, as well as the gut-brain axis. Her research also delved into health communication and behaviour change related to whole grain intake.

Since joining Fazer in 2016, Laura has held the role of nutrition specialist and has contributed to various projects focused on nutrition research, well-being, and the development of healthy, plant-based foods. In her free time, Laura enjoys sport climbing, running, and spending time in nature.