VAMK — your key partner in research, development, and innovation
The RDI activities at Vaasa University of Applied Sciences combine expertise in technology, business, social and health care, and design. Our location in the entrepreneurial region of Ostrobothnia, surrounded by global companies, gives us a strong position to tackle the challenges of a changing world. We work closely with businesses, communities, and public actors to ensure that the latest knowledge and innovations are quickly put into practice, turning ideas into impactful solutions both locally and internationally. Our RDI activities focus on strategic priority areas, closely linked to regional, national, and international innovation ecosystems.
Our areas of strength
- Energy transition, smart digitalisation, and the clean transition
- International business expertise and logistics
- Solutions for the transformation of well-being
- Design thinking and systems design
VAMK’s RDI activities are based on the real needs of companies and organizations as well as research-based knowledge. We combine expertise from different fields with practical insights from working life to create solutions that support growth, competitiveness, and sustainable renewal. Our work is goal-oriented co-development, where experimentation, openness, and practical application are at the core. This approach produces solutions that improve operations and support long-term development.
National and International Collaboration
VAMK engages in long-term collaboration both nationally and internationally with universities and research institutions. This collaboration creates networks and opportunities that foster innovation and contribute to solving societal challenges.
Solutions for Societal Needs
Our R&D projects aim to address the needs and challenges of society. The goal in applied research and development projects is to enhance and rejuvenate the local workforce, industries, and, more broadly, the entire society.
Teachers' Excellence and Expertise
R&D activities provide teachers with the opportunity to apply their own excellence in practice and enhance their expertise in a changing society. They share their expertise with collaborators as well.
Students' Opportunity to Apply Theory into Practice
R&D activities provide students with a unique opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge in practical projects. Involvement in R&D projects better prepares students for the workforce and enhances their professional skills.
VAMK’s RDI activities are guided by a strategic vision and diverse expertise. This is ensured by VAMK’s RDI Advisory Board – a group of experienced professionals and experts from various fields, including technology, business, and science. The Advisory Board provides a broad perspective on the opportunities and challenges of RDI, supports strategic decision-making, and strengthens collaboration, ensuring that VAMK’s research, development, and innovation work delivers impactful solutions both regionally and internationally.
