Evaluation Report Publications of the Academy of Finland 1/11

Recommendations
The unit has in the evaluation period gradually focused more and more on biomedical 
applications of polymer materials and technology. The evaluation panel strongly 
supports this focus. There is strong Finnish research activity in materials research, 
primarily in wood chemistry and thin films, and by focusing on biomedical 
application of polymers the unit secures itself a unique position in Finland. In order 
to be successful, it is likely that the unit must secure a longer time perspective in its 
funding base. It is uncertain whether the more short-term Tekes funding or funding 
through Strategic Centres of Science, Technology and Innovation will be ideal for 
these activities.
The panel strongly encourages the unit to realise the increased level of mobility, 
exchange and internationalisation discussed in the self-evaluation. To ensure a 
sustainable growth of innovation and research, the panel also recommends that 
independent research opportunities for younger and senior researchers be 
encouraged.