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 13 000 students, 400 professors and close to 4 500 other faculty and staff working on our dynamic campus 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 position is funded by the collaborative NordForsk project AGRI-WASTE2H2, which aims to develop electrocatalysts and processes for the simultaneous production of green hydrogen and value-added chemicals from cellulose. As a Master‘s thesis worker, you will engage in cutting-edge research in experimental electrocatalysis, contributing to high-impact projects within a dynamic and supportive team environment.

The Master’s thesis research will focus on shape-controlled bimetallic electrocatalysts for cellulose oxidation. Your responsibilities will include:

• Synthesizing shape-controlled bimetallic nanoparticles by galvanic exchange.

• Characterizing the prepared nanoparticles using various analytical techniques.

• Evaluating their electrocatalytic performance in the electro-oxidation of cellulose.

• Investigating how experimental conditions influence catalytic activity and reaction selectivity.

Other tasks related to the position include:

• Documenting research progress through reports and potentially a scientific article.

• Presenting research findings in group meetings and to collaborators.

You will be a key member of the newly established 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

• The person to be hired must be an Aalto University graduate student, and it is considered an advantage for the applicant to be a master's degree student at the School of Chemical Engineering.

• Previous experience in materials science and experimental electrochemistry is an advantage.

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

• Strong command of English, both written and spoken. Proficiency in Finnish is not required.

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 (2500 €/month). 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 but must occur in 2025.

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 30.4.2025, using the “Apply Now!” button below. Include the following documents in English (PDF format):

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, contact Prof. Daniel Martin-Yerga (daniel.martinyerga(a)aalto.fi). Applications sent via email will not be considered; only submissions through the “Apply Now!” button are accepted.

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).

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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