Junior researcher in plastics recycling and associated plastic materials

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 explore recycling solutions in different value chains. 

Research focus 

Your work will include identifying, cleaning, and sorting various types of plastic waste; processing recycled materials for industrial applications; assessing the feasibility and sustainability of chemical recycling methods; analysing material properties and chemical compositions (with techniques such as DSC, FTIR, rheology, mechanical testing, and weather resistance evaluation); improving the performance of recycled materials through the use of additives; contributing to the development of innovative circular economy practices; working in a modern research environment equipped with advanced laboratory technologies; and identifying innovative approaches for plastic circularity. 

Your work will include: 

•  identifying, cleaning, and sorting various types of plastic waste;  

• processing recycled materials for industrial applications;  

• assessing the feasibility and sustainability of chemical recycling methods;  

• analysing material properties and chemical compositions with techniques such as DSC, FTIR, rheology, mechanical testing, and weather resistance evaluation;  

• improving the performance of recycled materials through the use of additives;  

• contributing to the development of innovative circular economy practices;  

• working in a modern research environment equipped with advanced laboratory technologies;  

• and identifying innovative approaches for plastic circularity. 

 What we expect from you 

You have a master’s degree or the equivalent in chemistry, material science, or another relevant field. Experience in research related to plastics or recycled materials is considered an advantage.  

You are able to work independently and produce reports, have strong collaboration skills, and are genuinely interested in developing circular economy solutions. In addition, we require that you begin your doctoral studies at LUT University. 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 in 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 Researcher Anna Keskisaari (Anna.Keskisaari@lab.fi),  Associate Professor Rama Layek (Rama.Layek@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. 

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Tagged as: Industrial production & manufacturing, Research, development & R&D