Science, boldness and working together
Over the past 60 years, the Faculty of Mathematics and Science has grown into the largest Faculty at the University of Jyväskylä and established its position as a nationally and internationally renowned research and education unit. The faculty combines world-class research, a multidisciplinary approach and a strong spirit of community.
The faculty's growth has been unique. A shared vision and determined work to achieve it have borne fruit. Milestones in the faculty's history include the construction of the Accelerator Laboratory, The Centres of Excellence funded by the Research Council of Finland and the interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center. The success of the Faculty's researchers in obtaining funding from the European Research Council (ERC) has also been crucial.
Basic research is the invisible force behind visible solutions
Several speeches during the celebration emphasized that the faculty's success is based strong basic research. Basic research often creates the foundation for future innovations and social decisions in ways that cannot be forecast in advance. For example, the construction of the Accelerator Laboratory of the University of Jyväskylä and the research carried out there are proof that bold decisions and confidence in own expertise can lead to internationally significant achievements.
- Science does not always progress in a straight line, but it always finds its way, when we give time and space. Basic research is long-standing work that comes from curiosity, where we boldly ask why and seek answers to phenomena that are not yet fully understood, said Professor Johanna Mappes, who was the Head of the Center of Excellence in Biological Interactions Research at the University of Jyväskylä on 2012-2017.
The science of curiosity
Rector of the University of Jyväskylä Jari Ojala emphasized in his speech that the faculty's cutting-edge research has attracted the best researchers in the field to Jyväskylä. The faculty's research results and the funding have aroused widespread interest and perhaps even a little jealousy. But this is the power of science: it arouses emotions, challenges, and inspires.
Science builds the future
City Councilor of Jyväskylä, Regional Councilor of Central Finland, Provincial Councilor, Vice President for Defence and Security at IQM Quantum Computers Jouni Flyktman was one of the speakers at the faculty's anniversary celebration. He said that quantum physics is one example of a field that has been difficult to forecast, but the potential is massive. Success stories like IQM show that Finland can be a technology leader that impacts the whole of Europe.
Flyktman wants to inspire others by sharing their expertise and encouraging people to boldly explore new ideas. Flyktman believes that now more than ever, we need examples that show how science can have a broader impact on society.
Collaboration creates new science
The speeches also emphasized the importance of cooperation and how the faculty's heart beats for collaboration, creativity, and ambition. The Nanoscience Center is one example of how researchers from different fields can work together to create something unique. Multidisciplinarity, open cooperation, and long-term work make possible breakthroughs that would not otherwise happen.
- Science is a common effort. It comes from trust between people, cooperation, and a passion for understanding the world. Science is about the people who make it possible, said Dean Mikko Mönkkönen from the University of Jyväskylä.
The strong sense of community within the faculty was also evident in the number of participants at the celebration. Around 150 alumni attended to mark the faculty's milestone. Their presence demonstrated that the bonds and appreciation for the faculty have strong.
