Are you interested in biomass processing and looking for a new job opportunity in the field? Do you want to build an excellent science career and work at the interface of academy and industry? VTT might be just the place for you.
VTT is one of the leading applied research organisations in Europe. What unites us are curiosity, a passion for learning, and a purpose: to solve the biggest challenges of our time and turn them into sustainable growth and well-being. Our cross-disciplinary community of over 2000 brilliant minds focuses on creating impact through science-based innovation. Get to know us further by exploring VTT's tech & infra.
We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated (Senior) Research Scientist to join our team in Espoo.
As a Research Scientist your key role is to develop and scale up biomass processing technologies. The successful candidate will apply their expertise in the chemical, mechanical, thermal, and enzymatic processing of lignocellulosic biomass to support a wide range of research topics. This role involves collaboration with potential customers and research partners, as well as active participation in offering our R&D expertise and know-how.
Our team focuses on efficient use of different biomass materials by feasible processing into a wide range of bio-products. The team consists of various experts with different experience levels. We are more than open to discussing your experience level, we are looking for someone who has already gained some work experience. But in turn, if you are already a Senior researcher – great, we are also looking for you!

With us, you will be responsible for:

• Biomass Processing: Design and conduct experiments to advance scientific knowledge in pulping chemistry and develop new technologies enabling the biomass streams suitable for various bio-based applications.
• Refining cellulose: Nanocellulose, Microfibrillated cellulose, cellulose dissolution and regeneration.
• Bio-based applications: Fiber based products, textiles (including re-use & recycling), films, coatings, packaging etc.
• Customer and Partner Engagement: Identify and establish contacts with potential customers and research partners.
• Project Management: Participate in project preparations (National/International), manage projects, and provide scientific and technical expertise to ensure successful project outcomes.
• Communication: Publish articles, technical reports, participation in conferences to disseminate the scientific results.

Who we are looking for:

• Advanced degree (Ph.D. or Master’s) in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or in a related field.
• Proven experience in handling and processing of biomass. Industrial experience is considered as an added advantage.
• Strong project management skills and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with customers and research partners.
• Demonstrated ability to provide scientific and technical expertise in project settings.

As a person, we hope that you are:

A fast learner who can work in a flexible and independent manner and collaborate with colleagues across different fields of science and technology. You are enthusiastic about your work and always eager to take on new challenges. You are not afraid to think outside the box and bring new ideas to the table and discuss them. This role requires not just skill and experience, but a passion for what you do and an innovative mindset to find beyond-the-obvious solutions.

With VTT, you’ll enjoy:

• Visionary work in technology. We offer positions at the cutting-edge of technology and engineering from next generation microelectronics and quantum technology to automation and robotics, energy systems and more. Our research agenda is dedicated to creating sustainable growth by solving systemic and technological challenges, so your work will go towards creating real, positive impact. Read more about our strategy – the path of exponential hope.
• Fascinating projects, excellent research environment. Our researchers get to work on a combination of cutting-edge academic research and applied customer projects, both locally and internationally. At VTT, you’ll have state-of-the-art research facilities at your disposal, such as Micronova, the Finnish research infrastructure for micro-, nano- and quantum technologies.
• Great career opportunities, superb colleagues. At VTT, excellence in research is a strategic priority. We offer long-term positions and stable career paths in top-level research. People tend to stay with us over 10 years since there are always new roles and responsibilities to grow into. Collaborating in a cross-disciplinary community with superb colleagues is a source of learning, inspiration, and fun.
• Support for your well-being. Our people are our main asset, so we take good care of them. We aim to nurture great team spirit and leadership and offer versatile well-being services to enable a good work–life balance. On top of 6 weeks of paid holidays, we offer exercise and culture benefits, hobby clubs, and voluntary well-being services such as meditation programmes and trainings on cognitive ergonomics.

Apply now and join our community of brilliant minds!
Please send your CV and application with your salary request via our recruitment system as soon as possible but at the latest by 1 September 2024. We will process applications as they come in, and fill in the position as soon as we find the right candidate. A security clearance procedure may be conducted during the recruitment process.
Interested and want to know more?
For further information please contact Research Team Leader Liji Seleenmary Sobhanadhas, liji.seleenmarysobhanadhas@vtt.fi, +358504721334 on Monday 26 August between 14-15 (Finnish time UTC+3).