Dr. Turunen is a biologist and ecological botanist with over 30 years of experience in scientific research. Her work bridges multidisciplinary science and practitioner knowledge, focusing on the effects of climate change on nature-based livelihoods such as reindeer husbandry and forestry. Over the past 15 years, she has explored adaptation strategies, the capacity of communities to respond to cumulative environmental and socio-economic changes, and the integration of Indigenous and local knowledge into land use planning.

Her earlier research investigated the impacts of global change on boreal and subarctic vegetation in Northern Fennoscandia, including long-term experimental studies on the ecophysiological responses and defense mechanisms of forest and mire plants. Dr. Turunen has collaborated closely with Sámi reindeer herders and local fishers for nearly two decades, employing methods such as semi-structured interviews, participatory mapping (PPGIS), observations, and workshops. She has authored 70 peer-reviewed articles and numerous popular science pieces, reflecting her commitment to both scientific excellence and community engagement.