Åbo Akademi University and Mirka have entered into a strategic partnership agreement to enhance and further develop their collaboration in research, education, and sustainable development.
The partnership aims to strengthen and expand collaboration in research, education, and innovation, prioritising tangible benefits for society and businesses in Finland and across the globe.
Mirka is a Finnish-based global leader in innovative abrasives and surface treatment solutions. The company is a global leader in the automotive, timber, and composite industries, with a strong commitment to sustainable development and technological innovation.
Mirka and Åbo Akademi University have an established research partnership, including multiple large-scale projects supported by Business Finland’s Veturi programme.
Their most recent collaboration, the €3 million REMIS project (Recycling of Mineral Side Streams), focuses on advancing the recycling of construction and demolition waste and industrial by-products. The project brings together researchers from Åbo Akademi University in both Vaasa and Turku, working in collaboration with Mirka and other industry partners.
Since 2024, Mirka has also rented laboratory space in Åbo Akademi University’s Aurum facility in Turku, an innovative industrial collaboration that generates mutual benefits.
"This provides Mirka with access to advanced equipment while optimising the utilisation of Åbo Akademi’s research infrastructure," says Patrik Henelius, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Engineering. "Mirka’s physical presence in our laboratories fosters closer engagement with researchers and students, creating opportunities for collaborative projects including thesis work. It strengthens the workplace relevance of our academic programmes."
The partnership enhances Åbo Akademi University’s interdisciplinary and cross-faculty collaboration with society and industry in Ostrobothnia. It engages students, doctoral researchers, and staff across both Vaasa and Turku.
Mats Sundell, Research and Development Director at Mirka, is pleased that the company is further strengthening its long-standing collaboration with Åbo Akademi University.
"Through this strategic partnership, we aim to bridge industry and academia, working together to tackle future challenges with innovative solutions. We are proud to join Åbo Akademi University’s network of expertise and look forward to a positive collaboration across both the Turku and Vaasa campuses."
