Centria Strengthens Its Research Expertise – First Focus Research Group Appointed
Centria University of Applied Sciences is taking significant steps to enhance its research expertise during the upcoming strategic period 2025–2028. The aim is to develop the university’s research, development, and innovation activities (RDI) to better support the region and its education. This work aligns with the national development goals for universities of applied sciences (UAS), striving for readiness to provide doctoral education while maintaining key characteristics of UAS institutions—strong ties to working life and regional impact.

A major step towards achieving this goal is the formation of Centria’s first focus research group. These groups are tasked with deepening RDI expertise, supporting education, and serving the regional economy.
The First Focus Research Group Has Been Appointed
The first focus research group, RoboAI, has been appointed and it is led by Principal Research Lecturer Tomi Pitkäaho. RoboAI specializes in machine learning and mobile and collaborative robotics applied across various industries. Machine learning enables the development of intelligent systems that can learn and adapt to changing conditions. These technologies are leveraged in areas such as quality control, process optimization, and autonomous device operations, including independent decision-making by robots.
“Our aim is to promote effective collaboration between humans and robots and support the industry in areas such as quality control, process optimization, and the development of autonomous systems.”, outlines Tomi Pitkäaho.
The group consists of 13 experts, including three members from the teaching faculty. The group’s strong research expertise is evident in its composition: three PhDs, one Licentiate, and one doctoral researcher. International diversity is a core strength, with a third of the members coming from foreign backgrounds.
The group has already demonstrated its research capabilities. In 2023, it produced two JUFO-classified publications, with this number rising to four in 2024. RoboAI has also been actively involved in international networks, particularly in the robotics sector. Since 2022, it has organized workshops and panel discussions for the European Robotics Forum (ERF), one of Europe’s most significant annual robotics events.
Objectives for 2025
Key goals for 2025 include strengthening the group by recruiting one or more doctoral researchers. The group also seeks to deepen its collaboration with teaching to ensure that the latest research knowledge flows seamlessly to students. This requires continuity in high-quality projects and smooth integration between project work and doctoral research.
“Centria’s first focus research group is an excellent example of how research and development activities can combine high-quality research, educational support, and regional impact. This development places Centria firmly at the forefront of future expertise.” remarks Vice President of RDI, Marko Forsell.