University review of the operations of the Sodankylä Geophysical Observatory completed – Arto Vaarala appointed interim director of the unit
Due to irregularities identified in SGO’s procurement activities, the rector of the university initiated a review on 12 December 2025 examining the observatory’s finances, procurement processes, project operations and management practices during the years 2023–2025.
The completed review found structural shortcomings in the unit’s financial monitoring and internal governance. Responsibilities for projects and their monitoring have been fragmented, procurement has not in all cases complied with the university’s procurement guidelines, and some travel has taken place in violation of the university’s travel policy.
According to the review, SGO’s management practices and the monitoring of agreed measures have not formed a sufficiently clear or forward-looking framework, which has weakened systematic planning, transparency and staff trust.
Based on these findings, the University of Oulu will launch a development process for SGO aimed at restoring the unit’s financial balance, clarifying and strengthening mission, developing the operating culture and strengthening collaboration networks.
“SGO carries out excellent and important scientific research. We now need to clarify the observatory’s mission and management practices and bring the unit’s finances into balance so that this important measurement and research activity for our university and for society can continue successfully,” says Petteri Alahuhta, Vice Rector of the University of Oulu.
Arto Vaarala will serve as interim director of SGO and will report to Vice Rector Petteri Alahuhta. As the development work progresses, a new leadership model for SGO will be defined.
The review was carried out by specialists from the university’s finance, procurement and HR functions. It was based on material collected from financial reporting systems as well as discussions with SGO management and staff and requests for clarification. SGO personnel were informed about the review at its different stages.