I am a Professor and Director of Center for Markets in Transition (CEMAT) at the Aalto University School of Business. I am in charge of several multidisciplinary research projects which provide scientifically rigorous and societally relevant research on emerging markets, especially on Russia and China.

My background is in economic geography. My current research interests center around Russia, its institutions, modernisation and business environment. I am particularly interested in the adaptation and coping mechanisms of both local and foreign firms in Russia.

I am in frequent dialogue with the business community and policy makers both nationally and internationally through various positions of trust, expert roles, participation in different networks, and research activities;

I am involved in the formulation of European research policies as a member of the Expert Advisory Group for the Horizon2020 programme, Social challenge 6 (Innovative, inclusive and reflective societies) nominated by the European Commission for 2013-2015 and 2016-2017. Linked to this, I am also an invited member of the Academy of Finland -led national support network for Horizon2020 as well as the working group on Horizon2020 led by the Finnish Ministry for Economy and Education. During 1 October - 28 February 2019 I also work as the Programme Director for the Strategic Research Programs "Security in a Networked World" and "Urbanising Society" under the Academy of Finland.

I am also the Finnish chairman of the Working Group for Social Sciences of the Finnish-Russian Commission for Scientific and Technological cooperation (funded by the Academy of Finland and Russian Academy of Sciences), expert member in several working groups (e.g. Committee for the Future of the Finnish Parliament, Finnish-Russian intergovernmental Commission for Economic Cooperation/ entrepreneurship in small and medium-sized businesses) and a frequently invited speaker in various types of events and meetings.