HAMK establishes a new innovation unit
Häme University of Applied Sciences is taking another step towards more impactful research and innovation activities as a new innovation unit begins operations on October 1st. The task of the unit is to strengthen the impact of research and development, accelerate the commercialization of research results, and support students’ startup and innovation activities as well as entrepreneurship.
IThe unit will operate as an independent entity, with the aim of strengthening regional vitality and speeding up the adoption of research results. Both new recruitments and financial investments will be made in the unit.
“The establishment of the innovation unit is an important step in HAMK’s strategic development. Through it, we can support Finland’s competitiveness, regional vitality, business renewal, and students’ opportunities to participate in innovation activities even more strongly,” says vice rector Heidi Ahokallio-Leppälä.
HAMK Research Director Annukka Pakarinen has been appointed as the head of the unit, and her position will expand in the future to research and innovation director.
“The unit brings together HAMK’s strengths in research, development, and network collaboration. The goal is to build impactful and scalable solutions that support sustainable growth and generate new business,” states Research and Innovation Director Annukka Pakarinen.
The activities of the innovation unit are supported by several current and upcoming projects, such as applications for wearable intelligence in national defense and research in the new SmartBio education and research environment—for example, the study of endangered foods as well as research on mushrooms and algae.
Co-development plays a key role nationally and internationally, such as the collaboration of eight European universities within the RUN-Europe University, where HAMK is responsible for pedagogical development.
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