Erityisasiantuntija, Autonomisten järjestelmien ekosysteemi - Turku Science Park Oy Ab - Åbo, 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 looking for 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 1.10.2026 to 31.12.2028). In your role, you will: compile and facilitate the innovation network of autonomous systems, including companies, universities, and public actors, into a recognizable ecosystem; define common RDI priorities, operating models, and rules of engagement, and particularly lower the threshold for SMEs to participate in RDI activities; identify research-based 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; connect the ecosystem to national programs (e.g., Innokaupungit) and the LAE Hub testing and pilot environment coordinated by Turku University of Applied Sciences, and work closely with Business Turku, especially related to maritime security, where autonomous systems and dual-use potential have a natural connection. You succeed in this role if you have: experience in ecosystem work, RDI activities, or building business networks; understanding of the technology field of autonomous and data-driven systems across environments such as air, sea, underwater, land, and underground, and enabling technologies connecting them (sensors, artificial intelligence, system integration, connectivity, data management); ability to operate comfortably between SMEs, university researchers, and authorities; practical and goal-oriented approach to completing tasks and monitoring results; fluent Finnish and English skills and a higher education degree. It is an advantage if you have: 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 RDI projects; understanding of the research-driven innovation pathway (R2B). We offer: an opportunity to work in a strategically important field that is rapidly growing, linking 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 and a clear mandate within your area of responsibility. Your workplace is located in Turku Kupittaa, at Business Turku’s premises, with the possibility of remote work according to our practices.