At Puistokatu 4 – a Space for Science and Hope – our vision is to normalize a good life within planetary boundaries. We catalyze research and action that builds a future aligned with this vision.
An ecologically sustainable future requires rapid cultural change. We believe that change happens between people: individuals need other people and the support of community to make change happen. This is why we bring together people and foster the community working at Puistokatu 4.
Puistokatu 4 currently hosts around 80 members, who together with our backing foundations and the Puistokatu team form the building’s community. There are two types of community membership:
Are you interested in becoming a member? We are organizing tours at Puistokatu 4 on November 27, December 2, and December 3. On these dates you can get to know the building and learn more about our memberships. Sign up by clicking on the date that suits you best!
Academic researchers from various disciplines and stages of their careers whose research focuses on solution-oriented construction for an ecologically sustainable future are eligible to apply for membership at Puistokatu 4. In addition, the research must be affiliated with a research organization.
As a researcher at Puistokatu 4, you will be part of a cross-disciplinary community that shares your values, challenges your thinking, and supports you when needed. Membership is free for researchers, as research and scientific knowledge are the cornerstones of Puistokatu 4.
It is important to us that selected members actively interact with the Puistokatu 4 community. We also require an open attitude towards the diverse solutions to the ecological crisis. Evidence or interest in making impact with your research is considered an advantage in the application process.
Membership is for one year, after which it is possible to apply for a second year. Researchers and agents ending their membership become alumni members, who are welcomed to support the community and enjoy its many benefits.
We welcome applicants of different ages, genders, and disabilities, as well as those belonging to linguistic, cultural, or other minorities. Positive discrimination may be applied in the selection process.
In 2025, 46 researchers from 32 different disciplines and 20 different universities or research institutes have worked at Puistokatu.
Applications for researcher positions for 2026 will open again on November 20, 2025.
“At Puistokatu 4, it is understood that happiness is important and possible even during an ecological crisis. The space has a constructive and gentle atmosphere, which makes it a great place to work on your research. Puistokatu 4 also gives me hope for a better working life. That there are wonderful work communities where difficult things are done ambitiously, while at the same time understanding one’s limits.”
The agent membership of Puistokatu 4 is intended for social and commercial operators whose core business is building an ecologically sustainable future. The monthly membership fee is €100–200 + VAT, depending on the nature of the business. Please note that membership is personal.
As a member of Puistokatu 4, you will be part of a cross-sector community that shares your values, challenges your thinking, and supports you when needed. Selected members are expected to actively participate in the Puistokatu 4 community and to be open to diverse solutions to the ecological crisis.
Membership is for one year, after which it is possible to apply for a second year. Researchers and agents ending their membership become alumni members, who are welcomed to support the community and enjoy its many benefits.
We welcome applicants of different ages, genders, and disabilities, as well as those belonging to linguistic, cultural, or other minorities. Positive discrimination may be applied in the selection process.
In 2025, 28 agents have worked at Puistokatu, including artists, foundations, organizations, educators, writers, and journalists.
Applications for the 2026 positions will open on November 20, 2025.
“At Puistokatu 4, I met amazing people with a huge range of skills and a shared goal of a sustainable future. As a member, I got to participate in wonderful events and learned a lot. I will miss the atmosphere. I’ve never experienced such an open and curious vibe anywhere else!”
Tools to strengthen your role as an agent of change
A community that values slowness and care
At the heart of the Puistokatu community’s activities and existence is a shared set of values and culture, which is crystallized in our guiding principles:
“We want Puistokatu 4 to be a place where researchers can become active contributors to social discourse and where data backed by research can interact with the reality of various groups of people.”
