Sandra Hatakka
In the summer of 2023, MSc student Hatakka worked on the ENZYFUNC research consortia project preparing lignin nanoparticle coatings on cotton and CNF film. The goal was to stabilize them through enzymatic treatment and to apply additional molecules on the coatings to modify the surface properties.
"The lab work was versatile - besides sample preparation, I used a number of characterization and measuring techniques, such as DLS, SEM, UV/Vis-spectrophotometry, and mechanical testing."
Hatakka was supervised by Staff Scientist Dr. Paula Nousiainen and doctoral student Sahar Babaeipour. "The summer was a great learning opportunity and a chance to dive into the academic research world. And what a fascinating topic to work with!"
Emilia Ikävalko
This summer, BSc student Ikävalko worked on a completely new project on the typha latifolia (cattail) plant. Ikävalko performed basic characterizations of it and explored its valorization opportunities.
"It has been highly interesting, since we started from zero and the possibilities are basically limitless," Ikävalko says. "I have spent most of my working time in the lab, so it has been a very rewarding opportunity to get some practical skills. I have also learned a lot about different chemical and physical characterization methods."
Ikävalko was supervised by postdoctoral researcher Dr. Muhammad Farooq.
"Everyone in the group has been very kind and helpful, which has made the work experience very pleasant! This summer work opportunity has taught me a lot about research and will definitely help me in my upcoming Master’s studies."
Mirka Savikurki
BSc student Savikurki worked on the new cattail project with summer colleague Ikävalko.
"It was great to see and learn the characterisation of new material from the very beginning. I got to use a lot of new equipment, as well as learn how to process lignocellulosic material," Savikurki explains.
Alongside this project, there was also some lab work on lignin and betulin, in which she learned more about surface chemistry and interactions between substances. The summer work was also supervised by postdoctoral researcher Dr. Muhammad Farooq.
"With a view to starting my Master's studies in the autumn, this summer job has been a great opportunity to build up both my knowledge of chemistry and working in the laboratory. Working in this research group was such a great experience that I will continue working part-time in the autumn."
Elijah Mark Garcia
During the summer of 2023, Erasmus MSc student Garcia continued a research project for his Master's thesis concentrating on what he calls "the fascinating field of lignin valorization", which was supported by Dr. Muhammad Farooq and Staff Scientist Dr. Paula Nousiainen.
Through experiments, Garcia uncovered previously unanswered questions that had lingered from previous research. One of which is shedding light on the unique thermal behaviour exhibited by modified lignins. Further, his expertise in lignin chemistry was expanded.
"I eagerly explored new lignin modification schemes, broadening my skillset and knowledge in the process. To investigate the changes in their macromolecular properties, I employed advanced spectroscopic techniques, such as NMR, which provided valuable insights into the structural alterations of lignin."
Through such summer research assistant positions, a student may have the opportunity to continue with their studies. In Garcia's case, the interesting findings will serve as the cornerstone for his advancement as a doctoral researcher within the same research group. "This summer was not just a chapter in my academic career but the beginning of a promising research trajectory, driven by curiosity and a passion for unraveling the potential of lignin."
Three summer students contributed to research projects in the Bioproduct Chemistry group in 2022, gaining experience and skills in research techniques, and materials identification and characterization.
Group led by Professor Monika Österberg