Science Sessions

Science Sessions by our future-forward friends at the University of Eastern Finland are back! This summer, leading professors and researchers invite you to dive into the uniqueness of the human voice, current topics in brain health, and the protection of democracy, human rights and the rule of law in a shifting world order. Swing by the Oho! Stage each day to learn something new and get inspired!

Friday 17 July
Science Session: Your voice is unique – but it can also be cloned

Did you know your voice is one of a kind – yet surprisingly easy to clone with AI? Do you think you can tell a real human voice from a synthetic one? Professor Tomi Kinnunen takes you into the fascinating world of speech research and deepfakes. You’ll also get to find out which celebrity shares your voice!

Saturday 18 July
Science Session: Train your brain!

The brain is the centre of our emotions, thoughts and learning. Is exercise the best way to take care of it? Can music enhance the brain benefits of physical activity? And can it actually boost performance? Research Director Eero Haapala explores the latest insights into brain health. After the session, you can test your grip strength – a surprisingly telling indicator of your overall fitness!

Sunday 19 July
Science Session: A shifting world order – how do we protect democracy and human rights?

The global order is in flux. Around the world, authoritarian leaders are openly disregarding international law. How do we protect our shared rules in an age of strongmen politics? Professor of Practice Kaari Mattila shows why democracy, human rights and the rule of law form the very core of security. Safeguarding them concerns every festivalgoer – and the time to act is now.