PhD, adjunct prof. Mikko Peltoniemi has been appointed to Research Professor

Prior to being a research professor, Peltoniemi has worked as a principal scientist at Luke. Peltoniemi's research has focused on modeling forest carbon balances and forest resilience issues. In recent years, peatland forests and their greenhouse gas emissions have also joined Peltoniemi’s research. Peltoniemi took up his position on February 1, 2022.

Peltoniemi is looking forward to starting his new duties.

- I’m looking forward doing research that promotes an understanding of the functioning of ecosystems and combines different measurement data and models. I also expect to be able to promote research that integrates information about forest ecosystems into variables that are important for decision-making and sustainability, Peltoniemi says.

- Luke is a great place to do research that has practical relevance. Many practical issues require an interdisciplinary approach, and in a few places in-depth knowledge of different topics meets so well as in Luke, Peltoniemi continues.

Research professor in Ecosystem Modeling - Forests and Peatlands is Luke's answer to the growing information needs regarding forest nature and its dynamics in changing conditions.

- Through modeling, it is possible to examine, for example, the growth of forests in a changing climate, the development of features important for diversity and the climate and water effects of alternative forest management methods, says Antti Asikainen, Executive Vice President for Research.

 Research professors are in key positions for the scientific expertise and international visibility and effectiveness of Luke. The aim is to ensure top-level research in fields that are strategic for Luke, as well as applicability of research in business.