The aim is to strengthen Finnish university research and enhance Finland’s global reputation and performance in research and innovation.

The Research Council of Finland (RCF) has awarded €27.5 million to recruit eleven leading international researchers as professors and team leaders at Finnish universities.
This five-year funding, beginning in 2026, is intended to strengthen university research profiles as part of a €50 million initiative and boost Finland’s standing in research and innovation.
Seven universities will host researchers from countries including the US, UK, Brazil, Australia, as well as returning Finns with international backgrounds.
The funding will be provided to the host institutions employing these experts.
Jussi Vauhkonen, the executive director of funding opportunities at the RCF, noted in a statement that the strong interest reflects Finland’s attractiveness as a research destination, supported by high standards and increased government investment.
“We need the best expertise from a wide range of fields to keep the innovation path wide.”