The Oulu Unit specialises in research on the ecology of forest regeneration, changes in the condition of the forest environment, and the development of forest management methods for use in the Ostrobothnia-Kainuu region.

The activities of the unit extend from the flat plains of the coastal region of Ostrobothnia, to the high hills of Kainuu in the east. This provides a challenging environment for forest research.

The unit has intensified its networking activities with regional and national interest groups, and the proportion of research projects financed jointly with outside bodies is increasing.

International co-operation in a number of research fields is also on the increase.