Ilpo Forsman

Who are you, what do you do and how long have you worked at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine?

I am Ilpo Forsman, Senior Laboratory Technician for the discipline of pathology and parasitology. I prepare animals for autopsy (or ‘obduction’) and provide technical assistance in the autopsies. I have been in the Faculty since 1987.

What subjects came up during your work in 2014?

Animal autopsies have grown in number from year to year, especially horses. During my career the autopsies have included everything from gerbils to elephants! All in all, 2014 was a busy year for the discipline at large. Exotic animals that come to mind during the year include a dolphin and an Amur tiger.

What is best about your work?

The best thing is not being able to predict the workday or how it will unfold. I also like the feeling of contributing to veterinary science and helping the young students in the field.

What are your plans for 2015?

The year will be a so-called “gap year” with students, so aside from autopsies there will probably be more time to concentrate on organising the storage facilities and other equipment maintenance. I also intend to give orientation training in the discipline’s work procedures to a new workmate.