​ Dr Hjelt has extensive experience in building up corporate research and venture activities. He has been the founder and CEO of several start-up companies, as well as worked as director at Nokia Ventures Organisation and Nokia Research Centre.

Emergence of foundational breakthroughs

Graphene Flagship fosters the emergence of foundational breakthroughs in graphene science and technologies, and develops new engineering concepts to exploit the unique properties offered by graphene and its derivatives. As Head of Innovation Dr Hjelt will be responsible for managing, coordinating and supporting efficient processes for innovation and related activities.

"With his practical experience from all parts of the innovation cycle, and experience from both large industries and small companies, Kari is a perfect match for the flagship's needs. He will have a crucial role in maximising the impact of the Graphene Flagship", says Jari Kinaret, the director of the Graphene Flagship.

As Head of Innovation Dr Hjelt follows Dr Fredrik Hörstedt, who is now vice-president at Chalmers University of Technology. He will be based at Chalmers Industrial Technology, in Gothenburg, Sweden, effective on 18 January 2016.

"I am very excited about the opportunity to be part of such an impactfull undertaking.  Building an active research and business community around graphene technologies and applications is elemental for securing a strong competitive position for Europe in the future. I aim to be actively involved in innovation efforts both in the EU dimension through the Graphene Flagship as well as locally through the Graphene Centre at Chalmers.", says Kari

Hjelt is originally from Helsinki, Finland, holds a PhD in Engineering Physics from Helsinki University of Technology, as well as an MBA from the London Business School.