Research programmes

Through its research programmes, the Academy of Finland directs research and allocates research funding to fields that are considered of key importance in terms of science and society. The Academy’s research programmes are designed to advance a certain field of research, raise its scientific standards, and create new scientific knowledge and knowhow. A major emphasis in Academy research programmes is on multidisciplinarity and transdisciplinarity as well as international cooperation.

The Academy Board decides on the start-up of new research programmes. In 2009, the Academy funds 13 research programmes. The Academy of Finland will also participate in the joint European Baltic Sea research programme (2010–2016). Programmes are focused on a defined subject area, scheduled to run for a set period and composed of several research projects. Funding is provided for at least four years. Programmes have a coordinated management. 

Researchers may submit programme initiatives for consideration. Such initiatives may arise from the development need of a certain research field or from the need to generate knowledge on an issue important to society. 

• Research Programme Strategy (pdf)
• ERA-NETs