Doctoral Researcher in Chemical Upgrading of Polyphenols
Develop renewable biomaterials and colloidal particles from underutilized plant polyphenols and lignin.
Best for:Best for chemistry and chemical engineering graduates with a strong interest in sustainable materials, lignin chemistry, and hands-on laboratory research.
Overview
Aalto University's Bioproduct Chemistry group is seeking a doctoral researcher to focus on the chemical upgrading of polyphenols for advanced functional materials. The project aims to replace fossil-based chemicals and materials by engineering bark and lignin feedstocks into spherical colloidal particles for coatings, packaging, and emulsions. The candidate will work at the intersection of natural products chemistry, materials science, and industrial applications, utilizing advanced fractionation, modification, and characterization techniques. The successful applicant will join an international, multidisciplinary team and must enroll in the doctoral program in Chemical Engineering within the first six months.
What you'll do
- Develop efficient fractionation and modification routes for polyphenols, including solvent-free reactive extrusion
- Establish structure-property-performance relationships linking chemical composition and particle size to application performance
- Combine wet-chemistry characterization techniques with molecular modeling and machine learning approaches
- Collaborate closely with international academic and industrial partners on sustainable material innovations
- Prepare scientific publications and present research findings at conferences
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree in chemistry or chemical engineering
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; good written and spoken proficiency
Instruction: English
- Hands-on laboratory experience in relevant chemistry or materials science areas
- Strong background in organic and surface chemistry, specifically lignin or polyphenol chemistry
- Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary, international team environment
- Good time-management and independent problem-solving skills
- Must be eligible to apply for and secure the right to study in the doctoral programme in Chemical Engineering at Aalto University within the first 6 months of employment
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-05
Submit your application as a single PDF file through the online recruitment system via the 'Apply now' link on the Aalto University webpage. External candidates must use the online portal, while internal Aalto employees should apply through Workday. E-mail applications will not be considered.
- Cover letter
- CV
- Transcript of records
- Diploma
- Contact details of 1-3 referees
Contact
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