Doctoral Researcher, Solid-state enzymatic conversion of biomass

Job Description

The Department of Chemistry and Materials Science is looking for:

A Doctoral Researcher (PhD student) in solid-state enzymatic conversion of biomass

Are you interested in research, particularly in the field of biochemistry and material science, and enthusiastic about exploring unconventional synthetic strategies? We are now seeking a motivated team player, passionate about developing sustainable biocatalytic material synthesis techniques. Our research focuses on the use of mechanochemical and related solid-state synthesis approaches to make materials under solvent-free or low-solvent conditions, aiming to reduce the waste, cost, and hazards of chemical reactions. You will explore these synthesis approaches for biocatalytic transformations of biomass (e.g. cellulose, hemicellulose, chitin) into value-added biomaterials. In this role, you have the opportunity to train skills in biochemistry, materials science, in a large variety of material characterization techniques, and contribute to shaping a sustainable future.

Your role and goals

The focus of your research will be on enzyme-catalyzed transformations of biopolymers through solid-state reaction set-ups (ball milling, extrusion, and accelerated aging). For example, we are looking to understand:

• Can the solvent-free techniques eliminate the need for toxic and harmful solvents that are typically used for specific cellulose modifications?
• What new materials are accessible, when moving the reactions to the solid state?
• How will the activity of enzymes be influenced by the high-solid reaction setting?

The goal is for you to become an expert of sustainable chemical processing, solid-state biocatalysis and characterization of biomaterials. You will have the opportunity to share your results within the vibrant international green chemistry research community, local and international stakeholders concerned with biomass processing, while building skills in organic and physical chemistry, material science and advanced analytical techniques (e.g. state-of-the-art liquid and solid-state NMR techniques, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, etc). The position involves participation in departmental teaching and student instruction and can include international mobility upon receipt of travel grants.

Your experience and ambitions

We welcome candidates with:

• A Master's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field
• Good written and oral communication skills in English
• Motivation for working in the laboratory, carrying out experiments, and data analysis

Experience in one of the following fields is highly valued in the choice of the candidate: enzymatic catalysis, cellulose chemistry and characterization, and/or mechanochemistry.

Applicants must fulfill the eligibility and admission criteria for Aalto's Doctoral Programme in Chemical Engineering as specified at Aalto Doctoral Programme in Chemical Engineering | Aalto University. Doctoral studies at Aalto University take approximately four years.

Your team and network

You will work in the Synthesis Technologies research group (led by Assistant Professor Sandra Kaabel) in the Department of Chemistry and Materials Science (CMAT). The aim of the research team is to develop sustainable and safer technologies for chemical and enzymatic transformation of biopolymers, to expand the portfolio of available renewable materials. The CMAT Department offers a multi-disciplinary working environment, focused on micro-, nano-, and atomic scale engineering of compounds and materials. Your network will also include the Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, the FinnCERES Materials cluster and the LIBER Center of Excellence.

What we offer

Aalto University is one of the leading European research and higher education institutions in the field of sustainable chemistry and engineering based on the utilization of renewable resources. At Aalto University, you will work in our world-class facilities in the School of Chemical Engineering (https://www.aalto.fi/en/school-of-chemical-engineering/research-infrastructure), Micronova, and Otanano, training your experimental skills on infrastructure dedicated to the development of biorefinery processes and analytical techniques.

The fixed term contract is initially for 2 years with a preferred starting date in spring 2026 (negotiable). During the first 6 months you must apply and receive a right to study in the doctoral programme. Aalto University follows the salary system of Finnish universities. The starting salary for Doctoral Researchers is 3075 ??? / month (gross). The contract includes Aalto University occupational healthcare benefits.

The primary workplace is located at the Otaniemi Campus in Espoo. Life on the revitalized campus is vibrant, featuring stunning architecture, tranquil nature, and a variety of cafes, restaurants, and services, all complemented by excellent public transportation connections. Our campus and the nearby area also host offices of several high-tech startups and international corporations, offering opportunities for networking and career development.

Ready to apply?

Please submit your application through our online recruitment system no later than 26.04.2026 including the attachments mentioned below as one single PDF document in English through the "Apply now" link at the bottom of the web page.

Please note: Aalto University's employees should apply for the position via our internal HR system Workday (Internal Jobs) by using their existing Workday user account (not via the external webpage for open positions). If you are a student or visitor at Aalto University, please apply with your personal email address (not aalto.fi) via Aalto University open positions.

• Motivation letter: free-form letter (1 page) describing yourself, why you are interested in doctoral studies and this particular position.
• CV: including a short description of previous research experience (up to 1 page), possible list of publications, the title of your Master's thesis, and contact details of two references that we may contact.
• Copy of the master's degree certificate. (Students in the final year of their master's are welcome to apply, but the expected graduation date must be clearly stated in the application. Candidates must have completed the master's degree before the PhD contract begins.)

The position will be filled as soon as a suitable candidate is identified.

Applications sent via email will not be considered; only submissions through the online recruitment system are accepted.

If you want to know more about the position, please contact Assistant Professor Sandra Kaabel (firstname.lastname(a)aalto.fi).