The University of Helsinki has defined four top research areas that bring together the university's strengths and sharpen the international visibility of its research.
The top research areas are Future Technologies, Learning and Evolving Societies, Precision Health, and Sustainable Planet.
"The top research areas combine leading research across the human, life and natural sciences to create new knowledge and understanding and to address the major challenges of our time," says Anne Portaankorva, Vice-Rector for Research at the University of Helsinki.
Future Technologies tackle global problems and promote a sustainable future. The University of Helsinki's areas of particular expertise include AI and machine learning research (including ethical and regulatory aspects), nanomaterials and nanotechnology, mathematics and imaging, quantum technologies, space research, biotechnology, and the digital humanities.
Learning and Evolving Societies research combines the study of humans, cultures and societies. Leading research advances knowledge and benefits society. This is especially pertinent amid the challenges of climate change and global geopolitical shifts. The University of Helsinki's broad-based research extends from learning and understanding brain function to societal structures and change.
Precision Health broadens the focus from traditional disease treatment toward proactive and comprehensive health. The University of Helsinki's strength comes from seamlessly combining unique Finnish health data resources, biobanks and world-class research. The University of Helsinki achieves breakthroughs in areas including cancer and drug development, human genomics, metabolism research, AI applications in health research, and population health research.
Sustainable Planet research addresses our planet's acute challenges. Research at the University of Helsinki combines climate and environmental research with the social, economic and cultural dimensions of sustainability. The University of Helsinki's areas of particular expertise include climate and atmospheric research, ecology and biology, One Health, and food research.
Dedicated web pages for the top research areas will be published in early 2026.
