Research Centre for Computational Science and Engineering

Helsinki University of Technology

Director: Academy Professor Kimmo Kaski
tel. +358-9-451 4825
fax  +358-9-451 4830
kimmo.kaski(at)hut.fi

The Unit focuses on problems of computational science and engineering, including the modelling, analysis and visualisation of complex physical, engineering and cognitive processes and systems. In addition, computational algorithms, graphical visualisation and animation, and parallel computing methods are developed for various information technology applications. The research is conducted in three mutually supportive fields:
-Computational materials research (Professor Jukka Tulkki) focuses on the structural, electronic and optical properties of materials and micro- and nano-electronic components. Recent research topics include the fracture and growth properties of metals, semiconductors and complex materials like smart fluids and fibre composites; electronic and optical properties in novel semiconductor structures, e.g. quantum dots and wires; and electronic, photonic and      microelectromechanical components.
-Research in computational information technology (Professor Jouko Lampinen) concentrates on modelling and analysing complex physical, technical and economic pro-cesses, as well as systems involving vast amounts of data. The studies employ advanced probabilistic and information theoretic methods and soft computing, for instance artificial neural networks. These methods are developed and applied for problems of pattern recognition, machine vision, data mining and intelligent human-machine interface.
-Research in cognitive science and technology (Academy Professor Mikko Sams) focuses on studies of neurocognitive mechanisms in human communication. The results are utilised in information technology applications, for instance in developing user interfaces that allow for natural human interaction. An example is a system ('talking head') that can produce and recognise audiovisual speech. Knowledge of human communication mechanisms can be applied in developing advanced aids for disabled people, for example.

The Unit has a staff of 50: five professors, seven adjunct professors, nine post-doctoral researchers, 20 Ph.D. students, eight M.Sc. students, and one secretary.

Centre of Excellence pages