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We're looking for enthusiastic B.Sc. or M.Sc. students to join our research groups for the summer for several different positions. The ideal candidate is highly motivated and able to e.g. assist and carry out various lab tasks, run experiments and develop research skills. This is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in ongoing research projects, and work side-by-side with doctoral researchers and post docs.

 

The open positions are in all the departments of our School:

Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems (Bio2), the Department of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering and the Department of Chemistry and Materials Science.

 

How to apply?

Please submit your application through our recruitment system by using the "Apply” link on this page.

If you are currently employed by Aalto University: Please submit your application directly in Workday system using your existing user account (by writing “Find jobs” in the Workday search field).

 

Please include the following documents in your application:

• CV

• Application letter – A brief introduction of yourself and preferred starting and ending dates for employment

• Transcript of study records

 

You can apply for one or max three of the open positions. Please prioritize your choices using the position codes. You'll find each position code after the name of the position in the list below - please remember your choices when you move forward with your application.

 

Depending on the position, the summer job can last for 3- 4 months and is carried out between May and September 2026. Please note that these summer job positions are available for B.Sc. or M.Sc. students.

 

We are looking forward to hearing from you – please submit your application as soon as possible, but latest on 1 February 2026. We will start reviewing candidates immediately, and the positions will be filled as soon as suitable candidates are found.

 

In any recruitment process related questions, please contact HR Advisor Kristiina Hallaselkä, firstname.surname@aalto.fi.

 

Please find detailed descriptions of the open positions by department and research group below:

POSITIONS AT THE DEPARTMENT OF BIOPRODUCTS AND BIOSYSTEMS (BIO2)

Biohybrid Materials [Code: Kostiainen BiHy]

Would you like to study biomaterials and develop your expertise in e.g. biomolecular nanotechnology, organic synthesis and supramolecular chemistry? We are looking for highly motivated students to summer internship and diploma thesis positions in the Biohybrid Materials Group.

We offer several topics related to the group’s research interests at the forefront of biomaterials science, for example: 1. Structural DNA nanotechnology (DNA origami preparation and characterization). 2. Organic synthesis (Supramolecular host and guest molecules). 3. Physical virology (new virus polymorphs and capsid loading strategies).

As a successful applicant you should be highly motivated in experimental science and have a background in chemical technology, biosciences, physics or a closely related field. Completed B.Sc. degree is an advantage.

Further information: Prof. Mauri Kostiainen (firstname.surname@aalto.fi)

Biohybrid Materials | Aalto University

The Biomolecular Materials [Code: Linder BMM]

The Biomolecular Materials group use genetic engineering to make materials such as underwater adhesives and spider silk fibres. We are looking for a researcher interested in combining biotechnology with a biophysical understanding of how these materials function and can be made. 

For further information contact: Prof. Markus Linder (firstname.surname@aalto.fi)

Biomolecular materials | Aalto University

Engineered Living Materials [Code: Mangayil BioEng]

Are you interested in learning more about protein expression and secretion in microbes or the development of novel biomaterials?

Join us to explore the possible development of bacterial cellulosed-based Engineered Living Materials. The work involves lab work with various cloning methods to assemble needed protein secretion machineries and introducing said constructs into cellulose-producing bacteria to achieve in-situ functionalized living biomaterial i.e., Engineered Living Material.

Applications from MSc students are welcome. Previous experience in laboratory work and knowledge of cloning methods are appreciated but not required. Fluency in English is required. If interested, possible continuation to MSc thesis work can be discussed.

For further information contact: Assist. Prof. Rahul Mangayil or MSc (Tech) Jenni Vannas (firstname.surname@aalto.fi)

Biological Engineered Living Materials | Aalto University

Bioproducts Chemistry [Code: Österberg BioproChem]

Are you interested in sustainability and working with renewable materials? The Bioproduct Chemistry group develops renewable and recyclable materials from lignocellulosics. Our research focuses on side stream valorization and green and sustainable processes, like mechanochemistry and surface modification. We also explore the properties of interfaces and create biobased barriers, foams, emulsions, and develop textile recycling methods through flotation.

We are looking for a student to join us in experimental research, based on your area of interest. This opportunity is open to BSc or MSc level students. While previous experience in laboratory work or knowledge of lignin, and surface chemistry can be helpful, your curiosity and willingness to learn are what really matters.

Join us to help develop solutions that contribute to a sustainable future. If this sounds interesting to you, please apply.

For further information contact Prof. Monika Österberg (firstname.surname@aalto.fi)

Bioproduct Chemistry | Aalto University

POSITIONS AT THE DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY AND MATERIALS SCIENCE

Materials for wastewater nitrogen recovery [Code Elbahri/Miikkulainen N-rec]

Join us to develop advanced materials for tackling environmental challenges! Wastewater nitrogen pollution is detrimental to the environment, while nitrogen is important in the food chain and an essential fertilizer for agriculture. Both the current nitrogen recovery processes and the nitrogen fertilizer production consume a lot of energy. In collaboration with ENG scientists, we aim to create energy-efficient nitrogen recovery systems by combining polymer materials and surface engineering for membrane technology. You will contribute to the development of surface-engineered electrospun polymer membranes combined with Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) for precise functionalization. Your role will involve integrating electrospinning and ALD techniques for optimizing membrane structure and materials performance within the broader nitrogen-recovery platform.

The position is suitable for MSc students. We appreciate a focus on materials science in your studies and a good study record.

For further information contact Prof. Ville Miikkulainen and Prof. Mady Elbahri (firstname.surname@aalto.fi)

Atomically Controlled Materials Engineering | Aalto University

Nanochemistry and Nanoengineering | Aalto University

Multifunctional polymer films [Code: Jokinen/Vapaavuori FunSol)

We are developing multifunctional polymer films that are antireflective, superhydrophobic and self-cleaning and self-adhesive. These are aimed to be used as coating layers for solar panels to improve their efficiency. The work is experimental in nature: you will gain experience in fabrication of micro/nanostructured surfaces and testing their properties.

The position is suitable for MSc and BSc level applicants. In the selection process we appreciate a focus on materials in your studies and a good study record.

For further information contact Prof. Ville Jokinen and Prof. Jaana Vapaavuori (firstname.surname@aalto.fi)

Micro- and Nanofabrication | Aalto University

MMD team | Aalto University

Electrochemical Energy Conversion and Storage [Code: Kallio EEC]

Are you interested in developing more sustainable materials and devices for such applications as lithium batteries, hydrogen generation via water electrolysis? Our team focuses on improving material and energy efficiency of these and other emerging electrochemical energy conversion and storage processes to facilitate the ongoing green transition. The practical research work covers material synthesis, chemical characterizations, and electrochemical investigations in lab-scale devices and aims at understanding the connection between material structure and electrochemical properties. If you are interested in the positions, previous experience in synthesis and characterization is beneficial, likewise knowledge on electrochemistry.

Further information Prof. Tanja Kallio and Dr. Milla Vikberg (firstname.surname@aalto.fi)

Electrochemical Energy Conversion and Storage | Aalto University

Inorganic Materials Modelling [Code: Karttunen IMM-energy]

Join us to develop novel functional materials for improving energy efficiency. Research topics are available for example in the fields of pyroelectric and thermoelectric energy conversion materials. The research is carried out with quantum chemical materials modelling methods.

Applications from both BSc and MSc students are welcome. Previous experience in computational chemistry, solid-state chemistry, or Python programming are significant merits.

Further information: Prof. Antti Karttunen (firstname.surname@aalto.fi)

Inorganic Materials Modelling | Aalto University

Inorganic Materials Modelling [Code: Karttunen IMM-teaching]

Would you like to affect the way we teach at Aalto CHEM? The Department of Chemistry and Materials Science is looking for two students who are interested in developing new educational content for our BSc-level courses. One of the two positions includes teaching assistant duties on the course CHEM-A2600 Programming for Chemical Engineers (during study period V and June).

Applications from both BSc and MSc students are welcome. Requirements for the positions:

• Excellent command of Finnish is required.

• Good study success in CHEM BSc or MSc courses is a significant merit.

• Previous teaching experience is a significant merit but not required.

• Previous experience in Python programming is required for the position that includes teaching assistant duties on the course CHEM-A2600.

Further information: Prof. Antti Karttunen (firstname.surname@aalto.fi)

Inorganic Materials Modelling [Code: Karttunen IMM-multilingual]

Would you like to affect the teaching in the MSc Programme in Chemistry and Materials Science? The Department of Chemistry and Materials Science is looking for a summer student who would be interested in developing multilingual teaching material for the compulsory courses in the MSc programme.

Requirements for the position:

• Excellent command of Finnish and English is required.

• Good command of Swedish is considered as a merit.

• Good study success in the MSc Programme in Chemistry and Materials Science is a significant merit.

Further information: Prof. Antti Karttunen (firstname.surname@aalto.fi)

Renewable energy utilization & automated electrochemistry [Code: Peljo ElecPros]

Join us to develop materials and technologies for storage and utilization of solar and wind energy, as well as automation of electrochemical experiments. Research topic in the summer could focus for example testing of new catalysts for electrochemical reactions or development of robotic tools for accelerated experimental testing. The research is mainly experimental and carried out in laboratory, however also some desk top work with data treatment and literature survey may be included. Applications from both BSc and MSc students are welcome. Previous experience in laboratory work or knowledge of electrochemistry is useful, but not required. For accelerated experimental testing, knowledge of programming and electronics is required. 

For further information contact Prof. Pekka Peljo (firstname.surname@aalto.fi)

Soft Materials Modelling [Code: Sammalkorpi SOFT]

Are you interested in biomolecular solutions phase transitions, responsive polymer assemblies, or self-organization of colloidal materials at molecular level? Does computer simulations and theory research at the interface of chemistry, physics, and biosciences sound like your thing?

The Soft Materials Modelling group is looking for research-oriented B.Sc. or M.Sc. students with, for example, biomaterials, chemistry, or physics backgrounds to do research in the Academy of Finland Center of Excellence in Life-Inspired Hybrid Materials (LIBER).

We tend to get excited about fundamentals in phenomena involving liquids, protein assemblies, polymer materials, and colloidal responsive systems, such as emulsions and foams. Applications include advanced biosynthetic designer materials, drug transport, and adaptive coatings. Our main methodology approaches are molecular and mesoscale modelling (computer simulations), as well as theory work.

Good study record and at minimum, 2 first years of B.Sc. studies completed expected. Ability with computers is an advance. The group has also M.Sc. thesis opportunities and possibilities for doctoral studies.

For further information contact Prof. Maria Sammalkorpi (firstname.surname@aalto.fi)

Soft Materials Modelling | Aalto University

Autonomous electrochemistry in flow [Code: Yerga-Caro AUTO]

We invite a motivated BSc or MSc student to join us for 4 months to develop an AI-driven autonomous flow-electrochemistry platform. You will set up a modular system capable of running electrochemical experiments, analyzing the results, and selecting new conditions autonomously. The work combines electrochemistry, instrument control, and the use of machine-learning (ML) methods to discover optimal experimental conditions. You will program peristaltic pumps based on stepper motors, a potentiostat, sensors, and other custom hardware, integrating these components with ML-based Bayesian optimization into a unified system for autonomous experimentation.

Required: solid Python programming skills.

Valuable experience: chemistry lab work, electronics (e.g., Arduino), and 3D printing.

You will be part of an interdisciplinary collaboration between the groups of Prof. Daniel Martin Yerga (firstname.surname@aalto.fi), (Electrochemical Materials and Applications) and Prof. Miguel Caro (firstname.surname@aalto.fi), (Data-driven Atomistic Simulation).

Electrochemical Materials and Applications | Aalto University

Data-driven Atomistic Simulation (DAS) | Aalto University

POSITIONS AT THE DEPARTMENT OF CHEMICAL AND METALLURGICAL ENGINEERING

Chemical Engineering research group [Code: Alopaeus CHEMENG]

Chemical Engineering research group is focusing on industrial impact based on fundamental chemical and physical sciences. We are specialized in experimental work related to physical properties and phase equilibria, separation processes, and process modeling. Based on these, we can develop and design large scale chemical processes with huge positive impact in environment, economy, and human life.

We are looking for two summer trainees to explore phase equilibria related biorefineries and chemical recycling of plastics. You will be guided by our PhD students and senior faculty members working actively in these fields. Both MSc and BSc students are welcome. Lab work experience is required, and relevant successful studies considered as an asset. Besides safe and careful laboratory work, you are expected to analyze the results and report your work.

Further information: Prof. Ville Alopaeus (firstname.surname@aalto.fi)

Chemical engineering | Aalto University

Process Systems Engineering group [Code: Kortela/Harjunkoski PROSYSENG]

Our Process Systems Engineering group is seeking a Master's-level summer trainee for a fiber and chemical particle recognition project built on an ABB + wireless + cloud architecture.

The work combines programming, analysis of measurement data and images, and a concise literature review or modelling task depending on the candidate's background. The position is a full-time, three-month summer traineeship.

We expect relevant Master's studies—such as automation, chemical engineering, or computer science—solid programming skills, and an interest in image analytics, process automation, or cloud services. Previous experience with industrial environments or ABB systems is considered an asset.

Further information: Jukka Kortela (firstname.surname@aalto.fi)

Process Systems Engineering | Aalto University

The Catalysis Research Group [Code: Puurunen CatalysisGroup]

The Catalysis Research Group carries out multidisciplinary research at the interface of chemistry and chemical engineering. We develop and characterize solid heterogeneous catalysts, test their activity, and carry out related modelling. Recent catalytic case study examples are carbon dioxide hydrogenation to methanol, hydrodenitrogenation, converting waste glycerol to renewable-based aromatics, and (emerging research) plastics recycling. Among the catalyst preparation methods, we use atomic layer deposition, for which we also do fundamental research which is relevant also e.g. for the semiconductor industry. 

We are looking for one or more summer workers for summer 2026. The “bunkers” at Aalto CHEM housing the catalytic reactors will likely be closed for renovation, and therefore catalytic reactor work will be out of question. Topic(s) in summer 2026, will be related to adsorption characterization of catalysts, potentially involving data analysis and modelling. Studying scientific literature is always a part of the summer work. The whole group, including summer workers, takes a summer break of three weeks at the same time in July. 

Applications from both third-year BSc and MSc students are welcome. Previous experience in laboratory work and knowledge of catalysis (e.g. CHEM-E1130) and reaction engineering (e.g. CHEM-E7150) is appreciated. 

Group website: Catalysis Research Group | Aalto University

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