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Transformative Innovation in Times of Tensions Conference
14-16 April 2027 | Vaasa, Finland | Eu-SPRI Thematic Conference
An aerial image of the University of Vaasa campus in Vaasa during summer.

Keynotes

Paula Kivimaa

Paula Kivimaa

Paula Kivimaa is Research Professor in the Finnish Environment Institute Syke, Associate at SPRU, University of Sussex, and Associate Editor in Environmental Innovation and Societal Transitions. She is an internationally known scholar in sustainability transitions, with 20-year research experience on innovations, public policy, climate change, energy and mobility. Her recent and ongoing work is oriented to how security and geopolitics tie into innovation policy and energy transitions.

Jakob Edler

Professor Jakob Edler

Professor Jakob Edler is Executive Director of the Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research (Fraunhofer ISI) and Professor of Innovation Policy and Strategy at the Manchester Institute of Innovation Research (MIoIR), University of Manchester. A leading international scholar in science, technology and innovation policy, his research explores the governance of innovation and the evolving role of policy in addressing societal transformations. His work has shaped academic and policy debates on how innovation systems can contribute to resilience, sustainability, and transformative change in an increasingly complex global environment. Read more on the Fraunhofer ISI website.

Martin Meyer

Professor Martin Meyer

Professor Martin Meyer is Vice-Rector for International Affairs at the University of Vaasa and Professor of Industrial Management in the School of Technology and Innovations. An internationally recognised scholar in science, technology and innovation studies, his research focuses on knowledge exchange, academic entrepreneurship, technology transfer, and emerging technologies. He is particularly known for his contributions to the understanding of university-industry-government relations and the Triple Helix model of innovation. With more than 150 publications and over 11,000 citations, Professor Meyer has played a leading role in advancing research on innovation ecosystems, knowledge transfer, and the societal impact of science and technology. His work continues to inform academic, policy, and industry debates on innovation and sustainable economic development. Read more.