When Tomi Vuoriheimo found himself researching fusion energy, it wasn’t the result of a lifelong dream—it was more of a lucky accident. Today, he is part of leading European research aiming to solve one of the greatest energy challenges of our time. Fusion research may not offer quick wins, but it can sweep you off your feet—and broaden your perspective in the process.
“I’ve always been curious about how things work,” says Tomi Vuoriheimo (PhD), who now researches fusion energy. After high school, the world of science and mathematics was wide open. Medical school was an option, but in the end, physics won him over. He began studying physical sciences with a focus on experimental physics.
But how did he end up in fusion research?
“It was pure coincidence,” Vuoriheimo says. “After my master’s, everything was still a bit uncertain. When a position opened up at the university, I applied.” He admits to some hesitation at the time. “I hadn’t studied energy technology, and suddenly the idea was to write a doctoral dissertation on fusion energy.”
Vuoriheimo received a postdoctoral grant from the KAUTE Foundation to support his research.
He firmly believes that unfamiliar topics can become deeply engaging when given the chance. Today, Vuoriheimo is actively involved in European fusion research and works in several research groups.
Why study fusion?
According to Vuoriheimo, fusion energy represents a possible energy solution for the future. “But then again, it’s been ‘the future’ for decades. People keep saying that we’ll have a fusion power plant in 30 years, but we’re still not there.”
The field can be frustrating—even for seasoned physicists. But the potential is enormous. Unlike fission reactors, fusion energy produces almost no emissions. “There’s no radioactive waste, so we don’t need to worry about where to store it.”
“Fusion research is truly eye-opening,” Vuoriheimo reflects. “There’s a real sense of teamwork, of being in it together.” Progress is made step by step, and although the finish line is still far away, the work is encouraging.
When a particle accelerator becomes part of everyday life
Vuoriheimo is based at the University of Helsinki’s Kumpula campus, where some of the research facilities—such as a particle accelerator—are housed in a building constructed partly underground.
“In a way, this is just a regular job. Experimental physics means I have to be on campus to use the equipment.” This kind of routine helps him maintain a balance. “I usually do the writing at home. It’s nice to have a flexible schedule.”
That flexibility, however, means the work often follows him into his free time. Vuoriheimo admits he has to set limits—his research-oriented mind is always alert. “I might go for a walk or do the grocery shopping during the day. It’s important to find a rhythm that works.”
Research grants as guiding lights
Vuoriheimo was already familiar with research grants during his doctoral studies. When the KAUTE Foundation grant ends, he will continue his work with a two-year EUROfusion Bernard Bigot Researcher Grant (ERG).
“The KAUTE Foundation grant gave me a strong starting point. It allowed me to continue my research—and now I know what to focus on.”
Ideally, the grant process also sharpens your thinking. Vuoriheimo believes that writing applications brings clarity to a research plan. “When a researcher understands what kind of resources their work requires, many things become easier.”
This is especially important in multi-year projects. “Now I can clearly see where I am, what equipment I’m using, and what the timelines look like.”
Of course, the application process can be frustrating too. “Absolutely,” he laughs.
What—or who—has expanded your thinking?
“The fusion community has played a huge role. It’s inspiring to see researchers across the world tackling shared problems. We can lean on each other, and that sense of collaboration is meaningful.”
If money was no object, what wild dream would you pursue in your research?
“I’d want to study which materials can withstand the radiation damage caused by neutrons in fusion reactors. Solving that would be a major step toward building a functioning fusion power plant.”
Want to learn more?
“EUROfusion’s website offers in-depth information about fusion reactors. My dissertation could also serve as a starting point. And of course, YouTube has plenty of content—just search for something like ‘fusion problems.’”