Description of the security research programme

Our RDI activities in the security research programme are inspired by current needs arising from society. Through our projects, we develop human-centred and user-driven solutions that improve societal security and strengthen the resilience of individuals and communities.

We work in close cooperation with a wide stakeholder network. Our partners include universities, research institutes, authorities, companies, cities/municipalities and organisations. Our participatory working methods ensure that the security solutions developed in projects are practical and respond to the real needs of end users.

Our experts have strong competence both in RDI projects and in practical security work across different operational environments. The research programme works closely with the safety, security and risk management degree programme. By integrating RDI activities and teaching, we implement Laurea’s development-based learning model (LbD) and increase the societal impact of our RDI activities.

Our recent RDI projects focus on improving the security and resilience of critical infrastructure, addressing hybrid influence activities, strengthening community preparedness, and advancing environmental security. In addition, Laurea has extensive RDI expertise in, for example, maritime and border security, rescue services, cybersecurity, corporate and school security, crisis management, and the prevention of crime and radicalization.

Together with our partners, we develop solutions that improve preparedness and increase security in a rapidly changing world.

Desired international partner

Laurea is a respected and sought-after partner in security research and development projects. Our security research programme is highly international and widely networked. The majority of our projects are implemented with international funding, especially under the EU’s Horizon Europe programme.

In our projects, we act as an active developer, a reliable partner and often also as the consortium coordinator. Our long‑term engagement in European and Nordic networks strengthens Laurea’s role as an expert in security research and development and supports the security and preparedness of the whole of Europe.

Within the European security RDI community, Laurea is also known for its strong expertise in ethics and impact assessment. We receive numerous partnership requests every year and participate in several projects as an ethics expert partner. Our special expertise also includes evaluation of exercises and operating procedures as well as assessment of organisations’ risk management.

Our international and national networks

• University of the Arctic (UArctic)
• European Cyber Security Organisation (ECSO)
• European Organisation for Security (EOS)
• Finnsecurity
• Finnish Information Security Cluster (FISC)
• Finnish Water Forum