News
Four years and lots of tears – three experts tell how they succeeded in making the change
Many entrepreneurs and researchers set their goals based on a realisation that something needs to be done differently. The change they envision might be a new product or material, or it can be a new way to do things. Implementing change isn’t always easy, however, and it demands a stomach for uncertainty, say Professor Michael Hummel and entrepreneurs Annu Nieminen and Richard Nordström.
Paula Jouhten appointed Associate Professor in the Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems
The field of the professorship is Microbial Physiology. The five-year term begins on 1 January 2022.
Researchers develop the perfect recycled fertilizer for forests - saves 88% of energy normally used but still not legal
Finnish forests are typically nourished with fertilisers containing energy-intensive nitrogen and phosphorous mined in Morocco. Researchers have now developed an ecological alternative with ingredients sourced from a waste processing plant. It is good for forests and the environment – but legislation has to change first.
Bio-based coating for wood outperforms traditional synthetic options
Researchers turn a non-toxic residue into wood coating that resists abrasion-, stain-, and sunlight.
No more plastic wrap? Students create novel biobased packaging for cucumbers
A dip in the biobased liquid gives cucumbers a protective film. Innovative idea will be presented in the international BioDesign Challenge competition.
Researchers developing safe and affordable way to produce antibodies with aim of global access to treatment
New method uses yeast to grow antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 and other viruses.
Professor Maarit Karppinen has been invited to join an International Science Organisation
Maarit Karppinen has been invited as a member of the Belgian science organisation called Academy of Sciences (EURASC). The organisation has committees in different fields, of which the Chemistry Committee is one.
Nordic Biomaterials with CHEMARTS – Small steps for change are valuable
In the coming years, our material world will change dramatically. The overuse of existing raw materials cannot continue, and global consumption must decrease.
Academic co-operation on the boreal forest belt launched to accelerate innovation and adoption of bio-based solutions
University of British Columbia (UBC), Aalto University and VTT are joining their strong expertise on bio-based materials by launching the Boreal Alliance. The collaboration is realized via the Finnish FinnCERES Flagship and the BioProducts Institute at UBC.
New starts at the Kemira Boot Camp
Kemira together with the School of Chemical Engineering organized a Boot Camp for the students of Aalto University.
Aalto University Bioinnovation Centre launching
Aalto University’s Bioinnovation Centre will be established with the grant amounting over 10 million euros received from Jane and Aatos Erkko Foundation. Bioinnovation Centre will start its operation in 2021 by the recruitment of a professor enabled by the grant and opening the first call for the doctoral school supported by the grant.
Monika Österberg starts as Head of Department at BIO2
Professor Monika Österberg has been nominated as the Head of Department at the Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems (BIO2), starting January 1, 2021. Her term is for three years. She has acted as Vice Head of Department since the beginning of the year 2020.
Mauri Kostiainen has received a two million euro grant to study new biohybrid materials
The work of Mauri Kostiainen can help combine the best characteristics of biomolecules and synthetic materials.
Scientists use bacteria as micro-3D printers
Technique creates highly customised structures that could be used in regenerative medicine
In memoriam: Omar Velazquez, M.Sc., Doctoral Candidate
Omar Velazquez Martinez joined the Aalto community in 2015 as a student of the international European Minerals Engineering Course. From the very beginning, Omar became an active member of the Aalto community, whether supporting activities of the Student Guild, offering invited lectures or hosting new students in our School.
Anu Kaukovirta has been selected as the School of Chemical Engineering's Alumnus of the Year 2020
As a sign of her significant career and role in our society, Doctor of Technology Anu Kaukovirta has been selected as the School of Chemical Engineering's Alumnus of the Year 2020. She has worked as both a researcher and a director in industry and research institutes and throughout her career has been in close contact with her school. Currently, Anu works at the Natural Resources Institute Finland (LUKE) as Vice President of Research.
Circular Design Challenge Competition teams selected
The Circular Design Challenge Competition launched by Aalto University, Geological Survey of Finland GTK, Natural Resources Institute Luke, Finnish Environment Institute SYKE and VTT in May collected altogether 26 cross-organizational ideas. Nine teams received funding to develop their idea into a concept or proposal.
Nurturing the passion for research - Interviewing Associate Professor Ali Tehrani
Associate professor Ali Tehrani, who works at Aalto University's School of Chemical Engineering Bioproducts and Biosystems Department, has an impressive background in textile research already before joining Aalto. And he also enjoys guiding and supporting his students in their research and careers.
Revolutionising the bio-based industry
An interview of the new Professor of Practice Juha Lipponen from the School of Chemical Engineering.
Innovation expert Juha Lipponen to become Professor of Practice for the Department of Bioproducts and biosystems
A new professor of practice position has been created which will strengthen research into cellulose fibre modification technology and new wood-based products. Juha Lipponen will work at both Aalto University and Savonlinna Technology Park. Lipponen, who has had a long career in innovation, is also one of the finalists for this spring's Finnish Engineering Award.
