HELSINKI — The University of Helsinki is spearheading groundbreaking advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) methods tailored for industrial and fusion research, particularly at the ITER fusion reactor in Southern France. As part of a collaborative effort involving Finnish industry and research institutions, this initiative aims to harness innovative technologies to enhance operations at ITER while unlocking new business opportunities across various sectors. Led by VTT, the project applies business research methodologies to explore the innovation ecosystem surrounding ITER, with the goal of fostering a conducive environment for both large corporations and SMEs to thrive. Antti Hakola, Project Manager at VTT, highlights the transformative potential of this endeavor, stating, “Finland has collaborated in research and delivered commercial projects to ITER from its beginning, but now we will have a chance to go together on full throttle.” Dean and Professor Kai Nordlund from the University of Helsinki underscores the significance of leveraging the institution’s expertise in AI, particularly through the Finnish Center for Artificial Intelligence (FCAI), which serves as a hub for top-tier talent across academia, industry, and the public sector, according to a press release published on EuropaWire.

The project also emphasizes the importance of cross-technological research, spanning robotics, materials technology, power plant technology, fusion reactor physics, and safety protocols. Jarmo Heinonen, Senior Director at Business Finland, emphasizes the strategic support provided by the organization in fostering long-term collaborations between research institutions and companies, thereby facilitating the translation of research outcomes into commercial products. Timo Haapalehto from the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment highlights the immense potential of fusion research in driving advancements across various fields, including materials technology and nuclear energy. The FinnFusion Consortium, comprising industry partners such as Comatec, EOS Finland, Luvata, and Platom, along with research partners VTT and the University of Helsinki, plays a pivotal role in advancing Finland’s contributions to fusion research within the EUROfusion Consortium. Collaborators include Aalto University, CSC – IT Center for Science, Fortum, LUT University, Tampere University, and Åbo Akademi University, collectively driving Finland’s nuclear innovation agenda. Through its involvement in multiple Business Finland-funded projects, including those focused on nuclear decommissioning and small modular reactors, VTT continues to lead the charge in propelling Finland to the forefront of nuclear technology innovation.