VAMK is the key partner in research, development, and innovation
The research, development, and innovation (RDI) activities at Vaasa University of Applied Sciences are an essential part of the university’s comprehensive mission and its contribution to societal development. Our RDI activities build a solid bridge between theory and practice, offering numerous benefits to businesses, organisations, students, teachers, and the broader society both nationally and internationally. Our multidisciplinary research and development work integrates our expertise in technology, business, social and health sciences, as well as design, enabling us to address society’s complex problems from a multidisciplinary perspective.
VAMK actively engages in addressing global challenges and serves as a strong ecosystem actor, promoting broad and deep development across various industries in our export-oriented coastal region and energy cluster.
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.
Finland thrives on the west coast
The aim of the cooperation between the universities of applied sciences on the west coast is to deepen collaboration centered around digital manufacturing technology and robotics, as well as clean energy solutions. This will strengthen the knowledge base of the west coast and support regional development. The cooperation program includes Turku University of Applied Sciences, Vaasa University of Applied Sciences, Satakunta University of Applied Sciences, and Centria University of Applied Sciences.
Explore the cooperation program of the west coast universities of applied sciences
Introducing RDI Platforms
VAMK contributes to building a smarter society. The research, development, and innovation platforms at Vaasa University of Applied Sciences serve as meeting points for research, businesses, communities, and public entities. They provide practical solutions for sustainable development, well-being services, and smart living. The platforms operate in a phenomenon-based and multidisciplinary manner to ensure that fresh knowledge is rapidly and seamlessly put into practice.
Smart Business
Promotes business innovation and sustainable growth by combining cutting-edge technology with business expertise to support companies in development and transformation.
Smart Design
The research platform combines innovation, circular economy, and digital expertise through systemic design methods.
Smart Industry
Promotes smart solutions and supports green thinking in industry. The research platform focuses on innovations in energy efficiency, as well as advancing sustainable development and the circular economy across all industrial processes.
Smart Society
The research platform addresses societal challenges in a socially and ethically sustainable way by leveraging digitalization, financial expertise, and service design.
Contact Us
Join us in collaboration and make an impact on the future of your region with us.
Tiina Rinta-Rahko
Leader of the Smart Industry RDI Platform
tiina.rinta-rahko@vamk.fi
+358 207 663 657
RDI Advisory Board
VAMK’s RDI Advisory Board consists of experienced professionals and experts with a broad understanding of RDI activities and the associated challenges and opportunities. Members represent expertise in various fields, including technology, sciences, business, and legislation, ensuring a diverse approach to VAMK’s RDI strategy. The expert group provides strategic guidance and in-depth knowledge for VAMK’s research, development, and innovation activities.
Design Centre MUOVA
MUOVA is an organisation for creative design operating under VAMK. Its specialty is innovative, market-driven design. MUOVA conducts research, develops design methods, and applies them to new challenges based on its experience and expertise.
Publications
At Vaasa University of Applied Sciences, open publishing is encouraged, and self-archiving is part of the institution's processes. Primarly publishing uses open access channels.
Openness in VAMK
At VAMK, we are committed to adhering to the principles of open science and research, and enhancing our expertise in open practices. We aim to engage in open societal dialogue and promote social impact and interaction.
A research permit is required for all studies or theses that involve VAMK's staff or students. The application for a research permit should be submitted well in advance before the commencement of the research.
TKI-tiimimme
Minna Ritari
TKI-erityisasiantuntija
TKI-palvelut/Projektitoimisto
minna.ritari@vamk.fi
+358 207 663 421
Sirpa Loukiainen-Nygård
Senior RDI Specialist
RDI Services/PMO