Strategic research institute partner VTT

The twin transition — the green and digital transition — has been recognised both in the EU and in Finland as a key paradigm of the present and future. It refers to using technology, digitalisation and data to advance a carbon-neutral society and to help address global sustainability challenges.

Advancing the twin transition is a key objective in the activities and cooperation of Aalto University and VTT, and most of their joint research areas are related to it. Key research areas include, among others, microelectronics and quantum technology, artificial intelligence, wireless data networks, new materials and biotechnology, hydrogen technology and the electrification of society, minerals, the built environment and the circular economy.

Elevating the theme of security as one of the spearheads of collaboration is a result of the changing global geopolitical situation, which also affects research practices and content. 

Safeguarding the security of supply of critical technology and expertise is central in the cooperation between Aalto University and VTT, which, in addition to joint research projects, also includes the development of shared infrastructures. These include Micronova — Finland’s national micro- and nanotechnology research infrastructure, jointly owned by VTT and Aalto University — and Kvanttinova, a hub for research and innovation in future semiconductors.

Aalto and VTT have a particular strength and role in attracting international experts to Finland. Existing research and technological expertise attract new competence. As many as 48 per cent of Aalto's academic staff are international. More than 50 nationalities work at VTT and 13 per cent of VTT's employees are citizens of countries other than Finland. 

One aim of deepening collaboration is to better integrate these international experts in the service of Finnish business and industry. At present, more than 50 per cent of international Aalto's master's and doctoral students remain in Finland, which is a significant figure by international standards. However, more than 80 per cent would like to stay in Finland. Through the cooperation between Aalto and VTT, efforts are being made to promote the employment of these willing experts in Finnish companies. 

Educational cooperation, implemented through shared professorships and professorships of practice, also supports the security of supply of expertise.

Aalto University and VTT generate substantial impact by translating research results into societal use. Both submit dozens of patent applications annually and license their patents to industry.

Dozens of new companies are created each year within Aalto University’s ecosystem, and Aalto Startup Center provides incubation services for Aalto’s spin‑offs and other start‑ups. New deep‑tech growth companies attracting international investors also emerge from VTT’s own research. VTT LaunchPad aims to create high‑quality spin‑out companies, based on VTT’s intellectual assets, and to set them on a path to international growth.

The collaboration places particular emphasis on commercialising research and creating new growth companies.