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Research Council of Finland Fellow Dr. Jinze Dou

Dr. Dou obtained his PhD in the field of Bioproduct Technology under the supervision of Prof. Tapani Vuorinen from Aalto University in 2018, though part of his research was carried out at the University of Wisconsin Madison, USA, under the supervision of Prof. John Ralph. During his postdoctoral research work at Aalto, he had long visits to the University of Aveiro, Portugal (Prof. Dmitry Evtyuguin), Lappeenranta-Lahti University of Technology in Finland (Prof. Tuomo Sainio) and Shandong University, China (Prof. Jian Zhao). In addition to these academic steps, he also has industrial experience working as a research scientist at Andritz Oy (January 2022-August 2023). The Research Council of Finland (formerly known as the Academy of Finland) awarded Dou the Academy Research Fellowship for 2023-2027.

Doctoral Researcher Wajeeha Munib

Munib is a doctoral student specializing in the stability enhancement of stilbenes from pine wood sawdust and spruce bark through chemical functionalization. She has a foundational Master's degree in organic chemistry and a robust research background in organic synthesis. Her current doctoral research is focused on developing ultra-stable UV filters for sunscreen applications, leveraging the inherent properties of softwood sawdust and spruce bark extractive stilbenes. Areas of interest include: wood extractives, controlled stereo chemical reactions, and chemical functionalization of stilbenes for macrocyclization. 

Doctoral Researcher Elena Melnik

Elena is a doctoral researcher working on understanding the role of wood extractives in the pulp and paper industry, particularly using eucalyptus wood as a primary resource. Her research investigates the chemical composition of extractives and their transformation into pitch deposits, a significant issue in industrial processing. By understanding the pathways that lead to pitch formation, this research aims to contribute to more sustainable and efficient production processes. Elena’s previous academic background has provided a strong foundation in organic and analytical chemistry, with a specialization in separation methods in complex organic matrices. Areas of interest include wood chemistry, industrial process optimization, and advancing sustainable practices in the industry, with a focus on reducing environmental impact.

Master's Thesis Worker Kun Ouyang

Kun is a master's student at Aalto University, specializing in biomass refining. Under the supervision of Dr. Jinze Dou, he is currently conducting research for his master’s thesis on "Pulping and Bleaching of Bagasse". With a solid background in bio-based materials and pulping, and a bachelor's degree in the field, Kun is highly motivated to apply these technologies in industrial applications to conserve resources and improve the environment.

Doctoral Researcher Yue Wu

Wu is a doctoral student having background on pulping and bleaching technology. His research aims to orchestrate a tailored recovery strategy of wood extractives in the fiberline by understanding the underlying reaction mechanisms that occur at cooking and bleaching process. Areas of interest include the reaction mechanism of wood extractives in the ECF bleaching process, recovery process and analytical characterization of its products.

Research Assistant Lauri Leskinen

Lauri is a research assistant working to develop analytical methodologies for analysing fiber line samples with an emphasis on wood extractives. He has built a solid foundation of skills in analytical chemistry and a wide knowledge of fiber line processes throughout his studies and working experience. Extensive knowledge of wood extractives and their dissolution characteristics are key tools for solving pitch deposition problems which are a major concern in the pulping industry.