26.01.2026
institute recognition 

Recognition of the Institute of Chemistry's Outstanding Colleagues of 2025

Group photo of the 2025 colleague awards of the Institute of Chemistry
Group photo of the 2025 colleague awards of the Institute of Chemistry
Author: Elo Joandi

At the Institute of Chemistry's annual Christmas party, the Institute’s Director, Piret Pikma, announced the most outstanding colleagues of 2025. The recognition was awarded to employees and students who have been exceptionally supportive, have represented the institute through their scientific work, and have inspired others with their personalities.

Most Supportive Colleague

Marju Rosenthal received the title “Most Supportive Colleague.”

Marju Rosenthal is a positive and warm-hearted coworker who is always there for her colleagues—whether for good advice, a helping hand, or simply as someone you know you can turn to and call.

It is no wonder that colleagues have said: “What would we do without Marju?”

Marju Rosenthal is the “Most Supportive Colleague.”
Marju Rosenthal is the “Most Supportive Colleague.”. Author: Elo Joandi

Most Radiant Colleague

Rutha Jäger received the title “Most Radiant Colleague.”

Rutha’s enthusiasm, energy, and radiant presence are contagious, and her presence makes the workday brighter. Her sincere desire to inspire makes even young people far removed from chemistry light up with interest.

Rutha Jäger is the “Most Radiant Colleague.”
Rutha Jäger is the “Most Radiant Colleague.”. Author: Elo Joandi

Most Inspiring Colleague

Nadežda Kongi received the title “Most Inspiring Colleague.”

“Those who act will get far! And those who get far inspire others as well!”

Nadja sets high goals for herself in scientific work and, in addition, encourages colleagues to engage in sports and entrepreneurship.

Nadežda Kongi is the “Most Inspiring Colleague.”
Nadežda Kongi is the “Most Inspiring Colleague.”. Author: Elo Joandi

Most Athletic Colleague

Wiljar Lobjakas received the title “Most Athletic Colleague.”

Wiljar perfectly embodies the idea “a healthy mind in a healthy body.” Through his dedication and team spirit, he sets an example in sports, in promoting the field, and in participating in joint activities.

Wiljar Lobjakas is the “Most Athletic Colleague.”
Wiljar Lobjakas is the “Most Athletic Colleague.”. Author: Elo Joandi

Most Promising Colleague

Darja Lavõgina received the title “Most Promising Colleague.”

The most dedicated and motivated coworker when it comes to sharing knowledge. Darja’s eyes light up when she talks about her work; she is positive, solution-oriented, and always helpful—and the doors of the scientific world are wide open to her.

Darja Lavõgina is the “Most Promising Colleague.”
Darja Lavõgina is the “Most Promising Colleague.”. Author: Elo Joandi

Hidden Talent

Irina Kulish received the title “Hidden Talent.”

Irina’s hidden talents include drawing and writing stories from imaginative worlds. At the same time, Irina herself is a hidden talent of the Chemistry Institute—her optimism and systematic approach to work are an inspiration to everyone.

Irina Kulish is the “Hidden Talent.”
Irina Kulish is the “Hidden Talent.”. Author: Elo Joandi

Most Radiant Student

Karl-Ander Kasuk received the title “Most Radiant Student.”

Karl-Ander is a diligent and clever student who actively participates in academic lectures, in promoting the field, and in activities that add flavor to student life.

Karl-Ander Kasuk is the “Most Radiant Student.”
Karl-Ander Kasuk is the “Most Radiant Student.”. Author: Elo Joandi

Technical Rescue Fairy No. 1

Rait Kanarbik received the title “Technical Rescue Fairy No. 1.”

People turn to Rait when the computer doesn’t compute, the projector doesn’t project, the printer doesn’t print, the display doesn’t display, the burner doesn’t burn, the spectrometer doesn’t produce spectra—in short, when something doesn’t work as it should. Rait finds a solution!

Rait Kanarbik is the “Technical Rescue Fairy No. 1.”
Rait Kanarbik is the “Technical Rescue Fairy No. 1.”. Author: Elo Joandi

The Institute of Chemistry thanks all laureates for their contributions and wishes them continued success and inspiration in the future.