Scientific research and development work based on research is an important part of Väestöliitto's activity. They form the foundation on Väestöliitto's expertise and give tools to advocacy work.

Research in the fields of population studies, family sociology, and sexology is carried out at The Population Research Institute. Among the subjects which are studied at the Institute are family formation, having children, immigration, questions dealing with the integration of immigrants, sexuality, and sexual well-being. The Institute publishes yearly the Family Survey in which the Finns' views and opinions on different issues concerning families are introduced. Besides, the Institute publishes the demographic Finnish Yearbook of Population Research.

Väestöliitto's Clinics carry out clinical and other research on the well-being of children born with the help of assisted fertility treatments as well as the well-being of the children's families. Väestöliitto's Clinics have research cooperation with Finnish universities and hospitals as well as Nordic IVF clinics. Additionally, the Clinics cooperate in international projects.

The Medical Genetics Clinic carries out medical research in cooperation with Finnish and foreign research groups. The causes of mental disabilities, the effect mechanisms of genes in different syndromes, and the clinical picture of different syndromes are investigated. You will also find information on rare diseases on the web pages of the Clinic

The Sexual Health Clinic conducts investigations on contraception and prevention of sexually transmitted infections as well as sexuality and sexual well-being. The Clinic has participated in the developing of all new hormonal contraceptive products. VL-Medi Ltd. carries out clinical research on drugs.

The libraries and information services of Väestöliitto serve both customers outside the organization as well as Väestöliitto's staff.