Multidisciplinary research in the Sea and Maritime Studies profile area
The subject theme of Sea and Maritime Studies consists of environmental research in marine and coastal areas, archipelago and shipping, as well as multidisciplinary research on shipping, port operations, marine industry, legislation, and culture. The University of Turku also works in partnership with Åbo Akademi University in this collaborative theme.
The Baltic Sea research of the natural sciences is focused on the departments of biology, geology, and geography. The museums for flora and fauna have extensive specimen collections of both marine and archipelago biota. The Archipelago Research Institute is a key partner in the network of Baltic Sea research stations. The Centre for Maritime Studies (CMS) at the Brahea Centre focuses on maritime related research and development projects on social, economic, and environmental topics. CMS offers further education and conferences, too.
The marine research laboratory for Humanities and Social Sciences is organised under the University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University in a network known as Wave Riders (AHA - Fin. Aallonharjalle). Its purpose is to bring together scientists whose research is related to the universities’ Sea and Maritime profile area. Research topics include localised visibility and experience of environmental and climate change, as well as various phenomena related to sailing and seafaring culture.
Research connects scientists and decision-makers
The research of the University of Turku produces independent and up-to-date information on the Finnish maritime cluster, both for its own use and for decision-making at both regional and national levels.
The economic indicators produced by research are utilised by decision-makers, sector interest groups, suppliers, and the rest of the research community. The University of Turku is actively involved in EU projects promoting, among other things, cross-border cooperation, eco-efficiency, and competitiveness of the shipping and maritime industries.
The University of Turku participates in FINMARI
The University of Turku is a member of the Finnish Marine Research Infrastructure Consortium, i.e. FINMARI, which brings together key Finnish marine research infrastructures and develops equipment to meet the needs of cutting-edge research.
FINMARI is coordinated by the Finnish Environment Institute (SYKE). Other members of the consortium include the Finnish Meteorological Institute, the Natural Resources Institute Finland (LUKE), the Geological Survey of Finland (GTK), the University of Helsinki, Åbo Akademi University and the Arctia Shipping Company Oy.