Specialist, Ecosystem of Autonomous Systems - Turku Science Park Oy Ab - Turku, Finland

Autonomous systems are one of the strategic growth themes in the Turku region, at the intersection of maritime security, intelligent industry, and the Low Altitude Economy. We are initiating a coordinated innovation ecosystem for autonomous systems in the area together with regional universities and companies. We are seeking a specialist to build and facilitate this ecosystem and to advance research-based development ideas with companies towards experiments and pilots. The position is linked to project funding, which is currently being processed. It is a fixed-term position for the duration of the project (from October 1, 2026, to December 31, 2028). In your role, you will: compile and facilitate an innovation network of companies, universities, and public actors in autonomous systems into a recognizable ecosystem; define shared R&D priorities, operating models, and rules of engagement, and particularly lower the threshold for SMEs to participate in R&D activities; identify research-driven development ideas and systematically advance them towards experiments, pilots, and further development in collaboration with regional universities (Turku University of Applied Sciences, University of Turku, Åbo Akademi, Novia) and companies; link the ecosystem to national programs (e.g., Innokaupungit) and the Turku University of Applied Sciences' LAE Hub testing and pilot environment, working closely with Business Turku, especially in maritime security, where autonomous systems and dual-use potential are naturally connected. You succeed in this role if you: have experience in ecosystem work, R&D activities, or building business networks; have understanding of the technology field of autonomous and data-driven systems across different environments—air, sea, underwater, land, and underground—and enabling technologies connecting them (sensors, artificial intelligence, system integration, connectivity, data management); can operate comfortably between SMEs, university researchers, and authorities; have a practical and goal-oriented approach to completing tasks and monitoring results; are fluent in Finnish and English and hold a higher education degree. Your advantages include: existing networks related to autonomous systems (air, sea, land), maritime security, or dual-use technologies; knowledge of regulatory frameworks in the field (e.g., U-space, maritime autonomy) and experience in collaboration with authorities in testing and pilot activities; experience in implementing EU or national R&D projects; understanding of the research-driven innovation pathway (R2B). We offer: an opportunity to work in a strategically important field that is rapidly growing, connecting autonomous systems to industry renewal and national security issues; the chance to build an impactful ecosystem together with strong regional research actors and companies; an inspiring work community in the Baltic Sea region’s most agile growth environment, with a clear mandate within your area of responsibility. Your workplace is located in Turku Kupittaa, at Business Turku’s premises, and remote work is possible according to our practices.