Honorary Doctor Riikka Virkkunen encourages more women to work in technology

Riikka Virkkunen, a leader and prominent researcher in working life, has been nominated for an Honorary Doctor by MDU in 2024. Throughout her entire career, she has actively contributed to and supported an increased representation of women in the field of technology. By nominating Riikka Virkkunen for an honorary doctorate, MDU wants to honour and acknowledge her exceptional influence in academia, society and the private sector in the area of technology and innovation.

Riikka Virkkunen works at the Technical Research Centre of Finland (VTT), one of Europe's leading research institutions. She has solid expertise and experience in technology and innovation in areas such as industrial digitalisation and sustainable development.

Her work has contributed to promoting partnerships between academia, industry and society to solve complex technical challenges and drive innovation forward. This work is totally in line with MDU's vision of collaboration to create a healthy society.

Her solutions have had a positive impact

One of Riikka's foremost strengths is her ability to link theory and practice. She has actively worked with turning technical knowledge into practical applications for research results to have real benefit and influence. Her work has contributed to solutions and innovations that have had a major positive impact on both society and the private sector.

Supports and encourages more women to work in the area of technology

As a prominent female researcher and leader in the field of technology, Riikka promotes gender equality and inclusion in science and technology. She has shown that it is meaningful to support and encourage women to be successful in this field. Throughout her career, she has actively contributed to and supported an increased representation of women in research and technology.

An extensive network of contacts throughout Europe

Riikka has a large network of contacts that includes both academia and industry in Europe. She currently holds leading positions in the "Made In Europe Partnership" and EFFRA (European Factories of the Future Research Association). Recently, Riikka coordinated a project with 19 European partners, that focused on digitalisation needs and ways to achieve a circular economy in the manufacturing industry.

By nominating Professor Riikka Virkkunen as an honorary doctor, Mälardalen University wishes to recognise and honour her research and collaboration, as well as her input in supporting women in technology. She has a great influence on academia, society and the private sector in the field of technology and innovation. MDU looks forward to establishing future partnerships with Riikka Viirkkunen with a focus on co-production and sustainable development.

• Honorary Doctors at MDU