VAMK involved in a research initiative on human-centred and embodied AI

The Research Council of Finland has granted €2.8 million to establish HUMAIN – Human–AI Interaction Nexus, a new research infrastructure in Vaasa. The initiative brings together four partners; Vaasa University of Applied Sciences (VAMK), Åbo Akademi University, University of Vaasa and Novia University of Applied Sciences, combining their strengths in a joint initiative for future human–AI interaction.

At VAMK, the interdisciplinary project is carried out in Smart Industry research area. The initiative combines humanistic and technical perspectives to understand and develop the interaction between humans and technology.

“The updates to the RDI environment carried out within HUMAIN significantly support research, development, innovation, and education in applied robotics, digital manufacturing, and intelligent industrial systems in Vaasa. Key development areas include, for example, advanced sensor technologies, new XR solutions, digital industrial environments, digital manufacturing, and AI-based control systems that enable the simulation and testing of collaborative processes. Together, these updates strengthen the capacity to support applied research, co-development with industry, and practical training in intelligent, human-centered industrial robotics,” says Senior Lecturer, Energy and Environmental Technology Mirja Andersson from Vaasa University of Applied Sciences.

The initiative also strengthens the region’s innovation environments and supports both industry and public sector actors in their digitalisation and development ambitions. HUMAIN contributes to realising the region’s goals for sustainable technology development and provides opportunities to test new technology, develop production, and build expertise for the future.

“Vaasa and Ostrobothnia are emerging as pioneers in artificial intelligence and robotics through the HUMAIN FIRI project. HUMAIN is building a state-of-the-art research infrastructure that combines human-centered AI, socially assistive robotics, industrial automation, and sustainable technology development. The project is a major asset that promotes co-creation, lifelong learning, and knowledge transfer between companies and higher education institutions. This strengthens Ostrobothnia’s innovation capacity and positions Vaasa as a national forerunner in the development of responsible, human-centered AI and robotics,” tells RDI Director Marja-Riitta Vest from Vaasa University of Applied Sciences.

Led by Åbo Akademi, HUMAIN – Human–AI Interaction Nexus – will run from 2026 to 2028 with a total budget of €2.8 million, of which the Vaasa University of Applied Sciences’ share is about €700,000. The initiative is part of the Academy of Finland’s initiative for local research infrastructures within the national FIRI programme.