HELSINKI (News release) -- UPM and Åbo Akademi University are expanding their cooperation by signing a frame agreement covering several fields of research. UPM and Åbo Akademi University have previously already cooperated in biomedicals research which is one of Åbo Akademi University's spearhead fields and a focus area of UPM's Biochemicals unit. The frame agreement strengthens cooperation in biomedicals and also in paper, pulp and energy research.

"We are actively looking for strategic partners on a global scale. The frame agreement with Åbo Akademi University strengthens UPM's network of strategic partnerships in areas that are essential for our future businesses", states Pekka Hurskainen, Vice President of Technology Strategy Development at UPM.

UPM and Åbo Akademi University have already been doing successful cooperation with GrowDex® cellulose nanofibril hydrogel. It is UPM's first commercial product developed for biomedical purposes. It is especially well suitable for 3D cell culture applications, such as pharmaceutical research and development. GrowDex is highly biocompatible with human cells and tissues.

UPM leads the forest-based bioindustry into a sustainable, innovation-driven and exciting future across six business areas: UPM Biorefining, UPM Energy, UPM Raflatac, UPM Specialty Papers, UPM Paper ENA and UPM Plywood.

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EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY: We are a large automation company that has a line of consistency transmitters, sample valves and sheet break detectors that are marketed through a rep. network. We are seeking someone with a strong background in consistency control to facilitate start-ups, provide troubleshooting and technical advice. The individual should have experience in all major types of consistency measurement technologies (blade, rotary, microwave and optical). Knowledge of sheet break detection technology is desirable as well. Willingness to travel to paper production facilities across the US is a must.

Travel & Living Expenses to be reimbursed along with an agreed upon daily per diem rate.

For more information, please contact Jim Thompson at: jthompson@taii.com Ph. 678-206-6010 Cell: 404-822-3412

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Jim Thompson is back again...with a new book on a taboo subject: the personalities in the pulp & paper industry. Jim has written in the past on many subjects based on his four plus decades in the worldwide pulp and paper industry. This new book is packed full of information valuable to the senior member of the industry as well as the recent entrant. A must for every pulp and paper library.