UEF clinical RDI-ecosystem (UEF-RDI)

The University of Eastern Finland (UEF) and the North Savo Wellbeing Services County (PSHVA) have a long history of collaboration in clinical academic research and commissioned research services, both independently and in cooperation with businesses (such as pharmaceutical and medical device studies).

The operating environment has significantly changed with the healthcare reform. Like other wellbeing counties established in 2021, PSHVA is facing a severe resource and operational crisis, slowing down research, development, and innovation (RDI) efforts as resources are focused on ensuring care provision. This has impacted collaboration between organizations, including delays in starting clinical research commissioned as services. For businesses, this has created challenges in accessing RDI services (e.g., delays, lack of necessary resources such as personnel or equipment time).

Despite these challenges, UEF and PSHVA have identified specific development needs and opportunities for renewal. The project preparation has recognized the need to first review the structures and practices of clinical research and research services, both internally within the organizations and collaboratively for the shared environment. Additionally, the need for a joint strategy and future vision has been highlighted. Strengthening cooperation with local businesses (startups, growth companies, and large enterprises) and internationally operating corporations (pharmaceutical companies, medical device manufacturers) is a key development area.

This collaborative development effort has significant importance for the regional development of North Savo. Securing, enhancing, and streamlining the operational environment for clinical research RDI will strengthen the region’s research focus areas and support the growth and internationalization of health-related businesses. The benefits will ultimately materialize in new treatments, medicines, and health innovations for local residents and patients.

The project’s objectives are: 1) to further strengthen UEF and PSHVA collaboration from a strategic level to practical clinical research and research service models and create a shared RDI environment, 2) to involve the business sector and address its current and future needs in this development, and 3) to provide up-to-date information to support decision-making in both organizations and serve as a foundation for a joint RDI strategy, including identifying critical investment needs.

The project will enhance UEF and PSHVA collaboration with the business sector, create demand-driven RDI services for organizations, and expand access to services in the operational environment. The project will lead to shared operational models, services, and processes that improve the region’s RDI activities and long-term competitiveness. Indirectly, it will support the growth of regional businesses and the emergence and commercialization of new innovations.

The project’s impact will ensure that the needs of the business sector (national and international) are considered in building the clinical research RDI environment and will promote a collaborative culture between the public and private sectors in the future.

The parallel projects (UEF-RDI and PSHVA-RDI) address the need to secure and strengthen North Savo’s role as an internationally attractive research and innovation center, recognized for its central role in providing business-oriented RDI services and as a valued partner.