Members

The Finnish Academy of Science and Letters invites Finnish academics and scientists who have distinguished themselves in their own fields to become members. The number of members is limited: there can be no more than 333 members under the age of 65.

The Finnish Academy of Science and Letters may invite academics and scientists from abroad who have had outstanding research careers to be external members. The same strict criteria apply to their selection as to that of Finnish members.

A written proposal with justifications shall be submitted with respect to each proposed new ordinary or external member by at least two existing ordinary members or honorary members. The Selection Committee for each section shall consider the proposals for ordinary and external members and place its recommendations before a meeting of the section to be held at least two weeks before the Academy’s Spring Meeting.

The persons elected to membership of the Finnish Academy of Science and Letters are distinguished academics and scientists, and those choosing them, the existing Academy members, are similarly at the top of their profession. It has been the custom since 1919 for the final vote on the selection of new members to take place at the statutory Annual General Meeting in April.

Especially distinguished scientists and academics or patrons of science may be invited to honorary membership of the Finnish Academy of Science and Letters. The first honorary members were elected in 1910.

The Academy is divided into two sections, of Science and the Humanities. These in turn can be divided into groups for example according to the disciplines they represent.

This page contains information about the member benefits related to membership in the Academy.