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Three RDI developers working together around a robot

We research and develop with you

Centria’s eight research, development and innovation teams – Pre-awards and Networks, Digitalisation, Production technology, Robo AI, Smart Wood, Entrepreneurship and Business, Wellbeing and Health, as well as Chemistry and bioeconomy – aim for regional development.

Regionally significant and impactful RDI activities

Our RDI activities are regionally significant and impactful. In our operating area, industrial production and exports per person are among the highest in Finland. Some of the key areas include mechanical wood processing in Ylivieska and the surrounding region, inorganic chemistry industry in the Kokkola Industrial Park and Alholmens Industrial Park in Pietarsaari. Together, they employ nearly 8,000 people and make an annual turnover of more than 4 billion euros. In addition, there are many other successful industries in our region!

Our teams

Robotics and artificial intelligence

We are Centria’s top research group, aiming not only to research and develop but also to integrate robotics and artificial intelligence into the everyday lives of businesses and society.

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RDI expert working with a robot.

Chemistry and bioeconomy

New sustainable business opportunities for companies with a focus on circular economy thinking.

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Production technology

Robotics and artificial intelligence in improving efficiency and occupational safety in companies

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RDI developer working with a cobot

Entrepreneurship and business

Our team focuses on supporting entrepreneurship and entrepreneurship education, developing business, organizations and workplace readiness of personnel and students.

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Word "business" on the library shelf

Wellbeing and health

We actively contribute to the development of wellbeing and health, collaboratively creating new approaches and solutions for businesses, staff, and students.

Wellbeing and health
People in the nature

Digitalisation

Strong focus on the various challenges posed by digitalisation. We develop opportunities to apply the latest technology to practice.

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Two RDI developers flying a drone

Pre-awards and networks

Pre-awards & networks team develops project proposal processes and supports the planning, execution and dissemination of projects.

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Centrians talking and smiling together in a meeting

Smart wood

Technology-driven process and product development solutions in collaboration with wood industry and construction companies.

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RDI experts working with a painting robot.
Robot dog

Get to know our teams’ research work!

Each year, our teams work on around 100 projects, ranging from local independent projects to international consortium projects.

Get to know our projects, get excited and participate!