Project Manager / Innovation Unit

The University of Helsinki is strengthening its innovation activities and the societal impact of research. Our strategic priorities include increasing RDI collaboration with companies, supporting the creation of new student- and research-driven companies, developing open research infrastructures and experimentation environments, and strengthening the university’s innovation culture.

The University of Helsinki is seeking a Project Manager to join the Innovation Unit within University Services.

Role is fixed-term position until 31.10.2028.

About the role:

Your main responsibility will be to act as the Project Manager for the University of Helsinki’s part of the Helsinki+Espoo+Vantaa Innovations (HEVi) DualBoost -project (Dual-Use Technology Ecosystem Development in the Capital Region). A key part of your role will be to develop projects funded through external sources (e.g. NATO, the European Defence Fund, and Business Finland), focusing on dual-use innovation activities, Startup & SME collaboration, and ecosystem development, in cooperation with university researchers and external partners.

Your responsibilities will include active development of project ideas, building and coordinating consortia, and leading collaborative project development. You will also be responsible for reporting on and monitoring the finances of the University of Helsinki’s share of the project. As part of your role, you will build stakeholder relationships and participate in key dual-use networks. Success in the role will be demonstrated through new partnerships, externally funded collaborative projects, and a more active role for the University of Helsinki in key dual-use technology networks.

The position requires strong knowledge of funding instruments, particularly the European Defence Fund (EDF), as well as practical experience in developing and building projects. The role involves working extensively across innovation projects and collaboration activities on the University of Helsinki’s different campuses. A broad understanding of the university’s diverse research areas will be an advantage in succeeding in the role. You are comfortable building new collaborations and enjoy working with stakeholder relations. Knowledge, experience and networks in the (Finnish) defence ecosystem are a benefit.

Expertise related to innovation activities and university–industry collaboration — including research collaboration, innovation ecosystems, development and experimentation environments, innovation and research infrastructures, commercialisation, education, and research — will be considered an advantage. Project development and proposal preparation will primarily be conducted in English, and successful performance in the role requires fluent written and spoken English. Existing extensive international networks in relevant fields will also be considered an advantage.

Successful performance in the role requires the ability to work independently, a strong vision and expertise in building competitive project concepts, an interest in engaging with a wide range of subject areas, and the ability to develop project collaboration across the university research community and with external partners.

What we offer:

You will become part of our skilled team, to which you will contribute your expertise and your own personality. We offer an interesting and varied role with opportunities to develop your skills. The University of Helsinki is a responsible employer, where achieving a good work-life balance is a key priority. We look after your wellbeing and ensure your day-to-day life runs smoothly through, for example, flexible working hours, annual leave entitlements exceeding the statutory minimum, comprehensive occupational health services and Unisport’s wide range of sports facilities. At the University, we work in a hybrid model, combining remote and on-site work. A sense of community is one of our core values, which is why we also want to meet in person on campus. It is important to us to ensure a flexible balance between work and leisure time.

Interested?

Apply for the role via the link below by 19 October 2026 at the latest. Please, include your CV and a cover letter in which you outline your motivation and experience in your own words.

For further information, please contact Kalle Toivonen by email: kalle.toivonen@helsinki.fi

A diverse and equitable study and work culture is important to us. That is why we do our best to promote an inclusive university community. We encourage all qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply for our positions.

Click this link to read about accessibility and inclusivity at our University.

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