Maria Korkala, Administrative Specialist keeping things running with calm precision and a human touch
Maria Korkala is the administrative all-rounder at Lynsight who ensures everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. With years of experience in administrative roles in international organizations, she now oversees office administration, finance and payroll management, and supports the leadership team in a variety of projects. Her work is most visible where everything functions seamlessly – often in the background, yet always essential.
Originally, Maria set her sights on the travel industry, studying hospitality management and business administration with dreams of a hotel career. After working in tourism, she found herself craving a more stable work rhythm, which led her into administrative roles. From customer service in an insurance company, she quickly moved into an assistant role, then onto an international auditing firm and later into development roles in a family business. Before joining Lynsight, she worked as an Office Manager at another research and development company.
“I don’t have a background in research myself, but I truly feel I support it through my own area of expertise. From day one at Lynsight, I’ve been trusted and made to feel like a full member of the team. That trust has been a big motivator for me – and I want to give back as well.”
Maria’s workdays are varied and diverse. She handles financial and payroll administration, procurement, office management, and contributes to website and marketing projects. She also supports the leadership team across a wide range of initiatives – from international taxation and event planning to practical coordination.
“What I love most is the variety. I get to use my brain in many ways and learn something new every day. In a small and agile organization, things move quickly, and decisions can be made flexibly. The work is meaningful and rewarding: I can see the results in a concrete way.”
Maria finds special meaning in supporting research that will impact patients’ everyday lives in the future. She is often in contact with people living with conditions who provide research samples. The gratitude and hope she encounters serve as powerful reminders of how important her work truly is.
“In working life, we often ask ourselves who truly benefits from our efforts. For us, the answer is clear. Early diagnosis can change the course of a life, reduce heavy treatments and improve quality of life. Being part of that bigger picture feels genuinely meaningful.”
When thinking about the future, Maria keeps an open mind. She’s motivated by the opportunity to grow with the company, deepen her expertise, and embrace new challenges as they come. She feels her current role strikes the right balance between stability, challenges, and opportunities for development.
“It’s important not to feel like a robot. We’re all human, and in this workplace, there’s room to learn, grow, and even make mistakes, as long as your attitude is right and the willingness to do a good job is there. Feeling safe and supported in doing your job well is what keeps me motivated.”
In her free time, Maria enjoys spending time outdoors with her dog, hanging out with her two teenage children, and unwinding with crafts and coffee table conversations. She has also studied educational sciences for her own enjoyment. She believes an interest in the human sciences supports all forms of interaction, both at work and in life.
“Our team has a great atmosphere. It’s a nice place to work – even on Monday mornings. Psychological safety means you can express your thoughts and show your personality. It builds a
positive culture that everyone contributes to.”
Maria believes that at Lynsight, it’s competence that counts, not gender, age, or any other external factor. Equal treatment and the opportunity to grow are, in her view, key to helping everyone find their place and thrive.
“This is a workplace where I can use my skills, grow, and be part of something truly meaningful. It’s a great feeling to work in an organization where people are treated with both warmth and
professionalism.”
