From forest modelling to materials technology, from circular economy markets to policy tools – the Postdoctoral Programme for the Research Institutes brings together a wide spectrum of research topics with societal relevance.
The Postdoctoral Programme for Research Institutes was officially launched with a kick-off event in late October. The event welcomed warmly the first cohort of postdoctoral researchers and their advisors, offering an inspiring afternoon of networking, discussion, and shared insights.
Interest in the programme has been remarkable: over 1,800 applications were received for the first 36 positions, and half of the selected postdocs are relocating to Finland from abroad. This international dimension enriches the research community and reflects Finland’s appeal as a destination for high-level research.
The event aimed to foster connections between postdocs and their advisors across various research institutes, showcase the researchers’ exciting topics, and explore opportunities for collaboration. The Programme aims to strengthen expertise in fields that are vital to society and business, supporting high-level research that contributes to solving global challenges.
In her speech, Programme Director Johanna Buchert emphasized impact as a key objective of the Programme. She noted that research institutes are places where one can conduct societally impactful research in collaboration with industry and contribute to building a better future.
One of the engaging parts of the afternoon was the panel discussion on career paths in research, featuring four professionals with diverse trajectories. They shared personal experiences and encouraged postdocs to pursue excellence, stay curious, and actively build networks. Those who had moved to Finland highlighted the country’s strengths, such as equality, low hierarchy, and a healthy balance between work and personal life.
The event was designed for postdocs who have already started in their positions and their advisors. The remaining postdocs will begin their work at the start of next year. The Programme supports networking and diverse career development through meetings and training sessions.
We are excited to follow the journeys of these talented researchers throughout their time in the Programme – contributing to impactful science and building meaningful collaborations across disciplines and borders.
For more information, visit https://tulanet.fi/postdocs/.
Sanna Marttinen, coordinator of the Programme, Tulanet
tel. 029 532 6356, sanna.marttinen@tulanet.fi
