Doctoral Researcher, Chemical Upgrading of Polyphenols

About the role

Aalto University's Bioproduct Chemistry group, led by Professor Monika Österberg, is looking for a doctoral researcher to develop chemical upgrading routes for polyphenols found in bark and lignin. The aim is to turn these abundant, underused feedstocks into spherical colloidal particles that can replace fossil-based or harmful chemicals in coatings, packaging, emulsifiers and other applications. The project sits at the intersection of natural products chemistry, material science and industry.

Key responsibilities

• 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 (1H/13C/2D NMR, AFM, DLS, GPC, FTIR, zeta potential) with molecular modeling and machine learning
• Collaborate with international academic and industrial partners

Required profile

• Curious, ambitious researcher with a strong interest in organic and surface chemistry, especially lignin and polyphenol chemistry
• Problem solver with good time management and communication skills
• Master's degree in chemistry or chemical engineering
• Good written and spoken English and ability to work in a multidisciplinary international team
• Hands-on laboratory experience in relevant areas

Required skills

• Advantageous: experience with surface-sensitive techniques, synthetic and preparative organic chemistry, lignin analytics, colloids, polymer processing, programming (e.g. Python/R/Matlab), molecular simulation or machine learning

What we offer

• Fixed-term contract initially for two years; extension after a successful evaluation, typically based on progress, revised project plan and available funding
• Starting salary of about 3,140 EUR per month (gross)
• Access to Aalto's state-of-the-art facilities in an international research group

Applicants submit a single PDF through the university's online recruitment system: cover letter, CV, transcript of records and diploma, all in English. Applications close on 5 November 2026, though the position may be filled earlier.