Junior researcher in advanced analytical sensors and chemometric data analysis

The LAB University of Applied Sciences is seeking a curious and motivated junior researcher (doctoral student) in sustainable material science. The position is part of the Sustainable Material Solutions research group at the LAB University of Applied Sciences and includes doctoral studies at LUT University.  

As a junior researcher, you will study how advanced spectroscopic sensing and AI-based chemometric modelling can be applied and developed to examine, characterise, and evaluate novel biomaterials and sustainable materials.  

Research focus 

You will employ chemometric and machine learning approaches to process and interpret complex spectral and imaging data. Techniques such as principal component analysis (PCA), partial least squares (PLS) regression, multivariate curve resolution (MCR), and machine or deep learning algorithms will be used to identify relationships between sensor data and material performance indicators, such as quality, purity, mechanical stability, degradation, and recyclability. This data-driven approach enables real-time quality control, material authentication, adequate materials properties, and predictive modelling of material behaviour under different environmental or processing conditions. 

What we expect from you 

You have a master’s degree or the equivalent in chemistry, material science, physics, chemometrics, or data science, with a focus on spectroscopy, analytical chemistry, or AI-based modelling. Prior experience with multivariate data analysis, programming in Python or MATLAB, or working with analytical instruments such as FTIR, Raman, NIR, and HSI will be considered an advantage.  

You are highly motivated to work in a multidisciplinary environment combining laboratory experiments, data analytics, and sustainability research and can complete a doctoral degree within the designated timeframe. In addition, we require that you begin your doctoral studies at LUT University, and to that end, you must apply for the right to pursue doctoral studies at the LUT Doctoral School within the first two months of employment. 

Written and spoken fluency in English is required. Proficiency in Finnish is an advantage. 

Key responsibilities  

In the position of junior researcher, you will complete a doctoral degree within four years in accordance with the academic requirements of the LUT Doctoral School. In addition, the role includes participation in the preparation and implementation of projects within the Sustainable Material Solutions research group. 

What we offer 

We offer you an excellent opportunity to start a career in applied research. During your first four years as a junior researcher, you will focus on research related to your doctoral dissertation as well as your doctoral studies. 

After completing the doctoral degree, you will continue at the LAB University of Applied Sciences in research projects and development tasks. The employment contract can be concluded only if you obtain the right to pursue doctoral studies at LUT University. 

The work will start in early 2026 in either Lahti or Lappeenranta. LAB applies a flexible hybrid approach to work that also includes regular on-site presence on both campuses. 

The position follows the 36.25-hour work week for expert and support staff at universities of applied sciences. Working hours are flexible and support work-life balance. 

The position is full-time, and the salary is based on the collective agreement for universities of applied sciences (Finnish Education Employers). The starting salary is approximately €3,000 per month. The employment begins with a six-month trial period. 

Interested? 

Submit your application by 1 March 2026 at 23:59 (UTC+2). Please complete the online application form and attach the following documents in English or Finnish in PDF format: 

• Curriculum vitae (CV) 

• Copy of your degree certificate and transcripts; if the original document is not in English, Finnish, or Swedish, include an officially certified translation into English or Finnish 

• Motivation letter: a brief description of your qualifications, experience, and motivation for the position and research topic (max. 2 pages) 

• Research plan (3–5 pages) in the relevant field; the plan should include a preliminary dissertation topic, key literature, a research gap, potential research questions, and proposed research methods and data 

Only applications including all required documents will be considered. 

For more information, please contact Chief Specialist Mourad Kharbach (Mourad.Kharbach@lab.fi), Professor Satu-Pia Reinikainen (Satu-Pia.Reinikainen@lut.fi)  
or RDI Manager Tarja Kovalev (tarja.kovalev@lab.fi). 

Read more about the LAB University of Applied Sciences here.
Read more about the LUT Doctoral School here. 

The best of both worlds: studies and work. The LAB University of Applied Sciences is a higher education institution specializing in innovation, business and industry. It operates in Lahti and Lappeenranta, Finland, and online. We offer education in five fields: health care and social services, technology, business, hospitality, and design, fine arts and visual communication. We focus on supporting responsible, regenerative growth through intangible value creation, multipurpose materials, and human well-being. We have 10,400 students and 600 teachers and RDI experts. 

Technical support for using the recruitment system: recruitment@lab.fi 

Tagged as: Industrial production & manufacturing, Natural resources & environment industry, Research, development & R&D