Senior Scientist, Materials Processing and Circular Solutions

VTT; Finland; On-site; EUR 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

VTT in Finland is seeking a Senior Scientist to join the materials processing and circular solutions team. You will apply data flows, AI-driven solutions and intelligent process automation to advance polymer recycling.

You will collaborate across EU, Business Finland-funded projects, coordinate with our team, and help unlock the potential of our polymer recycling pilot infrastructure, working with partners and customers to shape the future of the industry. The position is located in Tampere.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in a relevant field; PhD is an asset.
• Experience applying computational modeling, ML or AI in polymer research.
• Understanding polymer and plastics process tech from lab to pilot scale.
• Experience with data acquisition or process automation and sensor tech.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills; English proficiency.

Responsibilities

• Process and analyze research data using digital tools (MATLAB, Python, R).
• Lead research in plastics processing and recycling.
• Prepare and manage EU- and Business Finland-funded projects.
• Advance circular economy solutions.
• Deliver results to high standards and build networks.

Skills

Computational modeling

Machine learning

AI in polymers

Data acquisition

Education

Master of Science in a relevant field

PhD (asset)

Tools

MATLAB

Python

R

Job description

Organisation/Company VTT Research Field Chemistry » Computational chemistry Chemistry » Other Computer science » Other Engineering » Chemical engineering Engineering » Materials engineering Researcher Profile Recognised Researcher (R2) Application Deadline 18 Oct 2026 - 20:59 (UTC) Country Finland Type of Contract Permanent Job Status Full-time Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Other EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

Join our expert team to shape the future of digitalization. We are looking for a forward-thinking specialist in data flows, AI-driven solutions, and intelligent process automation. If you are ready to turn ideas into impact and grow with us, VTT might be just the place for you.

VTT is a forerunner in research, development and innovation, and one of Europe’s leading research organizations. We develop cutting-edge technologies and transform them into growth together with our customers and partners. Our solutions address the greatest challenges of our time while creating sustainable growth, jobs and wellbeing. With more than 80 years of experience, we accelerate the journey from innovation to impact. By thinking beyond the obvious, we drive growth, renewal and resilience.

We are now looking for Senior Scientist to join ourmaterials processing and circular solutions team.

In this role, you will apply your expertise in data flows, AI-driven solutions and intelligent process automation to advance polymer recycling. You will contribute to major EU, Business Finland and other jointly funded research projects, coordinate project preparation with our team, and help unlock the full potential of our state-of-the-art polymer recycling pilot infrastructure. Working across the plastics recycling value chain, you will collaborate with experienced colleagues, partners and customers, share new ideas, and help shape the future of the industry

We have a healthy work culture where you can be yourself, share your views, and improve things without fear of making mistakes - that’s what makes the work truly meaningful.

Our team is located in VTT’s Industrial Chemistry research area and focuses on development of thermoplastic materials, their processing, and sensor-, spectroscopy- and software-enabled process control methods. The target is to create sustainable materials and products with high performance and increase circularity. We have unique pilot facilities for thermoplastic compounding, pre-industrial converting, and material characterization. In addition to these, we have unique pilot opportunities for identifying, sorting, washing and advanced mechanical recycling of recycled materials. The Material Processing and Circular Solutions team works in close collaboration with our customers and other research teams at VTT with business development and customer-oriented approach. The position is located in Tampere.

AsSenior Scientist,you will:

• process and analyze research data using appropriate digital tools (e.g. MATLAB, Python, R or equivalent).
• apply your experience in plastics processing and/or plastics recycling to lead and contribute to research in the field.
• contribute to the preparation and management of EU- and Business Finland-funded projects.
• advance circular economy solutions.
• ensure that our defined research tasks are completed on time and that the results are delivered and reported to a high standard.
• build professional networks and act as a thought leader in your area of expertise.

Who we are looking for:

• You have a Master of Science degree in a relevant field or equivalent science experience. A doctoral degree is considered as an asset.
• Experience in applying computational modeling, machine learning or AI in polymer research
• Understanding of the technical, economic and sustainability conditions in polymer and plastics process technologies from lab to pilot scale
• Experience in process automation, data acquisition or applied expertise in sensor technologies
• Good communication skills and ability to build high value research collaboration in the area
• You have proficient English language skills

As a person, we hope that you are:

• A proactive and independent approach to work
• The ability to work accurately and efficiently
• Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills
• A team-oriented mindset

With VTT, you’llenjoy:

• Visionary work in technology.
• Fascinating projects, excellent research environment.
• Great career opportunities, superb colleagues.
• Support for your well-being.

Interested and want to know more?

For further information, please contact Research Team Leader Marjaana Mussalo [e-mail] , [phone] on 13 October at 9-10am or 15 October at 15-16pm

We look forward to hearing from you!