Senior Scientist, Materials Processing and Circular Solutions

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 our materials 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.

-Your new Team Leader Marjaana Mussalo-

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.

As Senior 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’ll enjoy:

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

Apply now and join our community of brilliant minds!

Please send your CV and application with your salary request via our recruitment system as soon as possible but at the latest by 18 October 2026. We will process applications as they come in and fill the position as soon as we find the right candidate. A security clearance procedure may be conducted during the recruitment process.

Interested and want to know more?

For further information, please contact Research Team Leader Marjaana Mussalo Marjaana.mussalo@vtt.fi, +358400377005 on 13 October at 9-10am or 15 October at 15-16pm

We look forward to hearing from you!

Apply between 30 September 2026 and 18 October 2026 23:59 (Europe/Helsinki)

Employment type: Full-time, Permanent