Master’s thesis position on electrochemical oxidation of cellulose

Aalto University is where science and art meet technology and business. We shape a sustainable future by making research breakthroughs in and across our disciplines, sparking the game changers of tomorrow and creating novel solutions to major global challenges. Our community is made up of 16 000 students and 5 200 employees, including 446 professors. Our campus is in Espoo, Greater Helsinki, Finland.  Diversity is part of who we are, and we actively work to ensure our community’s diversity and inclusiveness. This is why we warmly encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to join our community.

The Department of Chemistry and Materials Science is at the forefront of research in micro-, nano-, and atomic-scale engineering of materials. Our focus areas include advanced and functional materials, chemical synthesis, energy storage and conversion, as well as molecular and materials modeling.

Within this department, the Electrochemical Materials and Applications (EMA) research group (https://www.aalto.fi/en/department-of-chemistry-and-materials-science/electrochemical-materials-and-applications), led by Prof. Daniel Martin-Yerga, is seeking a motivated

Master’s thesis worker to join our team

The Master’s thesis research will focus on the electrochemical oxidation of cellulose after dissolution in alkaline media. The aim is to systematically investigate how different cellulose dissolution approaches affect its subsequent electrochemical oxidation response on model electrocatalysts and find optimal conditions to enhance the electrochemical response.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Developing and comparing different approaches for cellulose dissolution in alkaline media, with and without additives.

• Evaluating the electrochemical oxidation of dissolved cellulose on model electrocatalysts.

• Characterizing the cellulose solutions and relating their properties to the electrochemical response.

• If time permits, more advanced electrochemical testing and reaction product quantification under optimized conditions.

• Analyzing and documenting experimental results.

• Presenting research progress and findings in group meetings.

• Contributing to the preparation of reports and potentially a scientific article.

You will be a key member of the EMA research group at Aalto University, where we prioritize collaboration and foster a supportive, inclusive environment. We expect you to embrace these values and contribute to creating a welcoming workplace for everyone within the group, department, and school.

To succeed in this role, your qualifications are

• Current enrolment in a Master’s degree program at Aalto University’s School of Chemical Engineering.

• Previous experience in experimental electrochemistry or biomass processing and analysis is an advantage.

• A collaborative attitude and the ability to work effectively in diverse teams are essential.

• Good English skills, both written and spoken.

What we offer / key employment details

Aalto’s School of Chemical Engineering is a leading environment for electrochemistry and biomass valorization research in Finland. Funding is provided for 5 months of full-time work (100%). Salary is according to Aalto University's salary scale, 2622 €/month gross salary. However, the working time percentage can be adjusted to allow for a longer period if that better suits the candidate’s needs. The exact start date is flexible, although an earlier start is preferred.

Your supervisor at Aalto’s School of Chemical Engineering adopts a people-centered approach, providing extensive support. This support includes encouraging your scientific independence and the development of your own ideas. You will be integrated into a creative and stimulating scientific community that fosters both professional and personal growth. Moreover, you will be equipped with essential skills in electrochemistry, materials science, and sustainable chemistry, which can be essential for your future career.

How to apply

Please submit your application through our online system by 13.9.2026, using the “Apply Now!” button below. Include the following documents in English (PDF format):

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).

• Curriculum vitae.

• A motivation letter detailing how your background and interests align with the position and your preferred starting date.

• Transcript of study records.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and suitable candidates may be invited for an online interview before the deadline.

For more information about the role, please contact Prof. Daniel Martin-Yerga ([email protected]). For questions related to the application process, please contact HR Partner Eeva Käki ([email protected])

Applications sent via email will not be considered; only submissions through the “Apply Now!” button are accepted.

Aalto University is committed to equality and diversity in our work community. We encourage qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply and join our innovative research team.

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