23.4. University Inventor Day 2026
Join us to celebrate inventions and inventors!
University Inventor Day 2026 brings the world of research and innovation closer to everyone in Oulu: we warmly invite researchers, experts, students, and the public to explore the University of Oulu’s innovation activities and inventions!
The event consists of two parts:the daytime event at the Linnanmaa campus is primarily aimed at researchers at the University of Oulu, other university staff, and our partners. The afterwork event at Kulttuuritalo Valve, in turn, brings our university’s innovations closer to all residents of Oulu. Everyone attending the daytime event is warmly welcome to join the afterwork, and we also hope to see members of the wider public outside the university come and explore the latest inventions.
When and where?
Daytime event
Thu 23.04.2026 from 13:00–15:30
Tellus Stage, Linnanmaa campus, Pentti Kaiteran katu 1
Afterwork event
Thu 23.04.2026 from 16:30–18:00
Kulttuuritalo Valve, Hallituskatu 7, Oulu
The inventions and innovations developed at the University of Oulu address important societal challenges and contribute to a more sustainable future. University Inventor Day highlights this work and the people behind it, while also providing inspiration, information, and opportunities for networking for those interested in innovation.
At the event, we will reveal and reward the University of Oulu researchers who submitted the most invention disclosures in 2025, and we’ll get a glimpse into the stories behind researchers’ work. We’ll also hear inspiring keynotes and have opportunities for conversations with researchers and experts.
The event will be held in English.
Daytime event program
13:00 Electrofolk duo Junna performs, sparkling wine, coffee and cake will be served
13:15 Opening remarks and a celebratory toast / Maarit Jokela, IPR Manager, University of Oulu
13:30 Video greeting from the University of Oulu’s Inventor of the Year
13:35 Keynote: From Writing Papers to Writing Inventions / Lucas Ribeiro, Postdoctoral Researcher, University of Oulu
13:55 Keynote: Using AI in Research / Tommi Määttä, Senior AI Developer, Visidon
14:15 Keynote: Understanding Brain Wellbeing with Glymphometer / Janne Haverinen, Dr. Tech, Quulas Health
14:35 Closing remarks, discussion, and networking
15:30 Event ends
Afterwork event programme
16:30 Opening remarks and coffee
16:40 Circus artist Hanna Moisala performs
16:50 Keynote: Art of Darkness – Luovaa tutkimusta Pikisaaren valotaidepolulla / Henrika Pihlajaniemi, Associate Professor, University of Oulu
17:05 Keynote: The Most Valuable Clock in the World – A Community Clock for Oulu/ Oliver Kochta-Kalleinen, Visual Artist
17:20 Ask anything about inventions!
Experts:
Jukka Berg, CEO, Osuuskunta A. Vipunen
Jere Kekkonen, Patent Attorney, Kolster Oy
Maarit Jokela, IPR Manager, University of Oulu
What have you always wanted to know about creating inventions, intellectual property rights, or commercializing innovations? What kind of support is available? Ask anything from experts in inventions and IPR!
17:35 Closing remarks and networking
18:00 Event ends
This event is part of the University of Oulu’s 2026 culture programme.