Build your expertise in separation science at LUT University! We are offering a fully funded doctoral position in synthetic polymer chemistry, focusing on the development of advanced materials for the selective recovery of critical metals.
The Department of Separation Science at the LUT School of Engineering Sciences is seeking a motivated junior (doctoral) researcher to develop advanced separation materials. This role involves experimental laboratory research, combined with polymer chemistry, coordination chemistry, and advanced separation methodologies, with support from computational modeling. The doctoral thesis will focus on synthetic polymer chemistry.
Our laboratory advances sustainable separation technologies through cutting-edge research that contributes to the Finnish and global bioeconomy. The project, funded by the Research Council of Finland, aims to develop a new generation of highly selective multifunctional materials featuring tunable binding sites, enhanced stability, and application-ready performance for recovering critical metals from secondary sources.
What your work will be like
Your research will focus on developing and investigating advanced materials designed for the selective recovery of critical metals. You will (i) synthesize and characterize new chelating monomers and tailor their polymerization into functional materials, (ii) design materials with high selectivity, stability, and performance, and (iii) evaluate these materials in representative hydrometallurgical environments.
The research will combine polymer and materials chemistry, metal-ligand interaction analysis, and process-relevant separation experiments, supported where applicable by computational tools (e.g., DFT) to understand and refine selective binding mechanisms.
Research activities are based at LUT's Lappeenranta campus, engaging in practical laboratory activities and collaborating closely with the Department of Separation Science - Finland's largest academic research unit specializing in sustainable separation and purification technologies, including innovative polymer-based solutions for resource recovery. A research visit to an international partner laboratory may also be included, depending on project needs.
What we expect from you
This position requires a Master's degree (M.Sc. or equivalent) in a relevant field such as chemistry, polymer chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, or organic chemistry.
We value experience or strong interest in the following areas:
- Polymer chemistry, materials chemistry
- Chelating ligands, coordination chemistry, or metal-ligand interaction studies
- Synthesis of functional materials for separation processes
- Characterization methods (FTIR, NMR, SEM/TEM, TGA, BET, ICP-OES/MS)
- Hydrometallurgical processes, or solid-liquid separation
Computational or theoretical chemistry will be considered an asset. Knowledge in computational modeling is welcome but not required, as the primary focus of the project is experimental development and characterization of selective materials.
Success in this position requires the ability to work independently, communicate your findings clearly, and collaborate effectively within our international research community. A strong academic background, genuine interest in pursuing doctoral studies, and commitment to completing the degree on schedule are needed.
A junior researcher must apply to the LUT Doctoral School for the right to complete doctoral studies within the first two months of the appointment.
What we offer
We encourage independence, innovation, and scientific growth, and we will support you every step of the way. You will receive mentoring from experienced supervisors, participate in professional development activities, and benefit from a research incentive scheme that provides personal rewards for high-quality publications meeting established criteria.
The position is based at the Lappeenranta campus. Hybrid work arrangements are possible, but regular on-site presence is required for laboratory work and meetings. The role also involves research visits to collaborators and may include travel to international conferences.
The employment relationship will start with a one-year term (including a six-month trial period) and may be extended for up to three additional years, depending on the progress of your studies and research.
The work will begin in early 2026. The hours are flexible, supporting work-life balance. In accordance with the collective agreement for Finnish universities, the position follows the system of 1,612 annual working hours.
The salary is determined according to the Finnish university salary system for teaching and research staff (requirement level 1). The starting salary is approximately EUR 2,780 per month, depending on experience and qualifications.
Interested? Please submit your application by 31 January 2026 at 23:59 (UTC+2h). Fill out the online application form and attach the following documents in PDF format:
- A motivation letter explaining your relevant experience and your motivation for this position
- A curriculum vitae (CV) following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity
- Scanned copies of your Bachelor's and Master's degree certificates and transcripts; if documents are not in English or Finnish, include certified translations. If your degree is unfinished, include an official estimate of the completion date
- Your Master's thesis, a draft, an abstract, or other significant research work
- A list of publications (if available)
- A one-page statement describing your research interests and how they align with the project
- Contact details of two references
Only applications that include all required documents will be considered.
We will review applications on a rolling basis.
For more information, please contact Dr. Youssef El Ouardi at [email protected].
Read more about LUT as an employer and the LUT Doctoral School.
Explore information for international staff.
LUT University | LUT University seeks solutions to global issues with its expertise in technology, business, and social sciences. LUT is a trailblazer in promoting the energy transition and the regenerative use of natural resources and helps build resilient communities, industry, and businesses through data, research, and education. LUT's campuses are in Lappeenranta and Lahti, Finland, but its impact is global. Lut.fi/en
Technical support for using the recruitment system: [email protected].
Application period starts: 2026-01-02 10:00Application period ends: 2026-01-31 23:59