I hold a doctoral degree (2004) and MSc degree (1997) in Human Geography at University of Turku. The area of specialisation in my doctoral studies was regional development and regional policies. I have worked as a researcher and a project manager Centre for Maritime Studies at the University of Turku, Brahea Centre since 2006, and as a university teacher at the University of Turku Open University since 2018. Before that I worked as a researcher in Finnish Environment Institute (SYKE) at Research Programme for Environmental Policy (2004-2005), as a researcher/doctoral candidate at University of Turku, Department of Geography (2002-2004), as a researcher at University of Tampere, Department of Regional Studies and Environmental Policy (2001-2002, Academy of Finland project BIAPIA), and as a Project Manager, Loimaa Region Development Centre (1997-1998).