Research groups

The biomaterials research team promotes companies and regions in the needs and opportunities of the circular economy and energy transitions and the transformation of the food system. Our research group works together with industry, regional developers and other stakeholders, promoting sustainable economic growth based on the use and processing of recyclable and renewable materials, and the development of plant-based food products.

The Design for Futures research group conducts multidisciplinary design research for better and more sustainable futures.

The promotion of sustainable well-being requires innovative solutions for well-being, health and safety. Digital transformation offers opportunities for new human-oriented operating models, where ethical aspects are also considered.

Diverse and inclusive working life research group's key research interests include the dimensions of diversity and diversity management, the inclusion and status of vulnerable groups in work and society, and organisational equality and accessibility.

EU policies have a long-lasting impact on SMEs, creating opportunities for enhanced regional engagement and growth. By aligning RDI investments with business and addressing global changes and commercialization, there is a great potential for localized research and skill development to thrive. The growth and commercialization research group's forward-looking, systemic understanding of these challenges positions us to develop innovative, impactful solutions.

The physical activity and functional capacity research group assesses and studies human physical activity and capacity in different environments. The research is guided by ethical principles and research integrity in human sciences. The research group develops and produces solutions that promote the well-being and mobility of individuals and groups in different environments such as companies, organizations, or communities.

Makes an invation to the field of innovations armed with human-driven design theories and methodologies emphasizing foresight, creative design thinking and system thinking.

The research group approaches responsible business and sustainable value creation from a phenomenon-based and multidisciplinary perspective, addressing themes such as responsible working life, environmental management, sustainable business models, and social responsibility. 

Sustainable material solutions research team tackles the global sustainability challenge by promoting circular-economy based new business creation by applying novel material technologies, along with AI and other digital solutions and data-driven business models.