Jack of All Trades, Master of Science: Embarking on a PhD Journey

Aleksi – you started your doctoral studies very recently. What are you currently most excited or nervous about?

"I do not know if I am particularly nervous about anything specific at this point, but the uncertain nature of research always brings something to be a little nervous about. I am excited about getting to work in a chemistry research environment with great colleagues to work with and to learn from."

How did you end up studying chemistry?

"I always liked STEM subjects in school, but chemistry really stood out to me as a more applied and hands-on science. Chemistry felt fascinating to me, and I knew I wanted to pursue something related to it in the future. I think the main reason and inspiration for that were my chemistry teachers in middle and high school. That is how I eventually ended up applying to a science and engineering programme, where I then selected chemistry as my major."

Photo: Jonne Renvall / Tampere University

What did you enjoy most about your bachelor’s and master’s studies?

"I think the best part of the science and engineering programme here at Tampere University was the freedom to choose my minor subjects. During my studies, I became particularly interested in polymers, so I focused on learning more about them by choosing courses in materials science. And since I had studied materials science as a minor, I was offered an opportunity to conduct my M.Sc. thesis work in the Paper Converting and Packaging Technology research group under Prof. Kuusipalo. My thesis research involved characterizing the applicable properties of biopolymer blends used in the extrusion coating of paperboard, such as adhesive, thermal, and rheological properties."

I started seriously considering doctoral studies after I had worked as a research assistant for about a year during my studies. Seeing how research is conducted at the University and having discussions with researchers about their experiences was very helpful for my plans.

What fascinates you most about science and engineering?

"I think the most fascinating thing about science is that the more you know and learn about it, the more you realise how little we actually know about everything surrounding us. It is an ever-deep wormhole to dive into when you start to research new things."

How do you unwind after a long day in the lab?

"I like to unwind by spending time on my hobbies or just turning my brain off and spend a relaxing evening with a good movie or series. My favourite hobby is disc golf, and you can most probably find me on a local disc golf course on a sunny summer day. I also love to play video games to escape reality for a little while."

What is your secret superpower?

"I think my superpower is being a Jack of All Trades: good at most of the things I do, but a master of none. Okay, I partly lied – I have a Master of Science degree after all."

Aleksi's research is part of the PHOTOPOLY project in the Polymer Chemistry and Materials group, funded by Emil Aaltonen Foundation.