the university of oulu
The University of Oulu (UOULU), coordinator of the Art of Darkness project, is a northern and international science university. It generates new scientific knowledge and develops solutions aimed at building a more sustainable, intelligent, and humane world.
Founded in 1958, the University of Oulu is one of Finland’s largest and most multidisciplinary universities.
With approximately 14,400 students and 4,100 employees, the university engages in numerous nationally and internationally significant research initiatives, conducting several hundred research projects each year.
science with impact
The University of Oulu addresses global challenges through impactful and sustainable solutions, driven by multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary research. Long-term basic research serves as the foundation for applied research across diverse fields.
Key thematic areas include:
– Mitigating climate change and safeguarding biodiversity
– Building a resilient and secure society
– Harnessing digitalisation, artificial intelligence, and data for humanity
– Promoting human health and well-being
Cutting-edge research
The university’s research excellence is grounded in strong multidisciplinary expertise. Its interdisciplinary research profile fields are based on research areas that are internationally rated as excellent.
The eight faculties form a dynamic scientific community, supported by advanced research infrastructure. Many research units at the University of Oulu are regarded among the international leaders in their respective domains.
Innovating at the edge of the North, impacting the world
Lighting research
The University’s lighting research team in the Oulu School of Architecture is specialized in multi- and transdisciplinary studies in real-world contexts.
Collaboration is carried out with other research institutions, cities and municipalities, industry, as well as, with the different faculties in the University of Oulu, including Technology, IT and Electrical Engineering, Science, Medicine, Education and Humanities.
The research focuses include intelligent and adaptive lighting and the design and experience of light and darkness in various kinds of contexts, such as urban spaces, educational and working environments, and underground spaces.
Meet the team:
– Riikka Vuorenmaa
– Outi Parhankangas
– Ella Kantola
– Henrika Pihlajaniemi (coordinator of Art of Darkness project)
– Aale Luusua
Photos: © Harri Tarvainen; Leena Kangas