OtaNano

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Blue-to-pink infographic showing OtaNano user, revenue, patent and publication statistics with bar chart.
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What is OtaNano

Operated by Aalto University and VTT, OtaNano is comprised of the Low Temperature Laboratory, Micronova and the Nanomicroscopy Center

The OtaNano research infrastructure houses 

  • comprehensive micro- and nanofabrication facilities in clean-room environments 
  • high-resolution imaging and characterization equipment
  • state-of-the-art experimental facilities, including ultra-low temperature possibilities

OtaNano is also a top-level learning environment for young researchers and an international centre for world-class scientific research. The facilities are important for scientists as well as for high-tech companies. OtaNano is a national platform for developing innovative enabling technologies and appling them to practical nano-, micro-, and quantum systems.

The OtaNano research infrastructure can be used by researchers, students and companies. All of its premises are conveniently located within walking distance from each other on the Otaniemi campus.

OtaNano's Impact

Building on decades of pioneering Finnish expertise in nano-, micro- and quantum technology, OtaNano was established in its current form in 2013.

Since then, OtaNano's facilities have been used in hundreds of scientific studies, product innovations, and breakthrough discoveries. Examples include achieving perpetual motion in time-crystals at the Low-Temperature Lab and the manufacture of incredibly precise sensors and quantum computers at Micronova.

OtaNano is included in the Research Council of Finland's national roadmap for research infrastructures 2025–2028 with exemplary "lighthouse" status.

OtaNano's international partners include EuroNanoLab, Nordic Nanolab Network, NordTEMHub and the European Association of National Metrology Institutes (EURAMET).

How to use OtaNano

OtaNano houses some of the best state-of-the-art facilities in Northern Europe. Whether you are part of a research group, working at a high-tech company or a student, the tools you need can be found at OtaNano!

Use the links below to reserve a timeslot for your research group, company, or simply just you!

Detailed info of the three facilities that make up OtaNano

Collage of nanomicroscopy lab equipment and scientists with text: Nanomicroscopy Center

Nanomicroscopy Center

The Aalto University Nanomicroscopy Center (NMC) provides high resolution microscopy to researchers, who come to work and collaborate using this high-quality equipment. The center is accessible to everyone.

OtaNano
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Low Temperature Laboratory

The Low Temperature Laboratory at Aalto University is one of the world centres in ultra-low temperature physics and technology. The leading position is based on vigorous in-house development and construction of sub-mK refrigerators.

OtaNano

OtaNano is home to 40 spin-off companies, including:

Highlights

Professor Jukka Pekola stood in a hallway smiling at the camera
Appointments, University Published:

Aalto Distinguished Professor Jukka Pekola’s message: Basic research is at the heart of progress

Department of Applied Physics Professor Jukka Pekola was appointed Aalto Distinguished Professor on September 1, 2026.
Award ceremony on purple-lit stage, group holding flowers and certificates facing audience in white caps
Awards and Recognition, University Published:

Aalto community members awarded for outstanding work

Projects and actions awarded bring Aaltonians together and embody the Aalto spirit – congratulations to all!
A woman with blonde hair stands with arm resting on a ledge with a grey background.
Appointments Published:

Associate Professor Andrea Sand appointed new head of applied physics department

Sand, a nuclear physics expert, is supported by new vice heads for research and education. All started their work on September 1, 2026.
Glowing neon sphere with geometric core and light trails floating above a tablet in the dark
Press releases, Research & Art Published:

World’s first superconducting quantum heat engine opens the path to larger quantum computers

A newly-developed superconducting quantum heat engine not only advances our understanding of thermodynamics but also enables technologies needed for high-qubit quantum computers.
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