Through its research programmes, the Academy of Finland directs research and allocates research funding to fields that are considered of key importance in terms of science and society. The Academy’s research programmes are designed to advance a certain field of research, raise its scientific standards and create new scientific knowledge and know-how. A major emphasis in Academy research programmes is on multi- and transdisciplinarity as well as international cooperation.
The Academy Board decides on the start-up of new research programmes. In 2012, the Academy funds ten research programmes. The Academy is also participating in the joint European Baltic Sea Research and Development Programme (2010–2016).
The Academy's research programmes are composed of several projects. As a rule, the funding is provided for at least four years.
A well-rounded education is crucial to instilling in citizens the ability to critically judge the validity of expert statements.
