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Developing and teaching in the circular economy is the heart of the work of Siiri Perämäki, Senior Lecturer of the Department of Chemistry. Developing the circular economy makes her feel that she is doing valuable work.

I have always been interested in natural science. During high school, I studied a laboratory course for high school students offered by the Department of Physics at the Ä¢¹½Ö±²¥. However, I felt that physics and mathematics at university level were too theoretical for me. In chemistry, I have always been interested in the practical aspects and in laboratory work.

The size of Jyväskylä was one of the reasons why I chose to study at Ä¢¹½Ö±²¥.We visited the University of Tampere and the Ä¢¹½Ö±²¥ during my high school years. The Ä¢¹½Ö±²¥ was the winner, because the University was close to my hometown (Saarijärvi). Also Jyväskylä has everything one might need.

Rooting in the university

I started my studies at the Department of Chemistry at the Ä¢¹½Ö±²¥ in 2005 and I am still on the same trail. I graduated with a Master of Science in the field of the analytical chemistry in 2010. My Master's thesis on the circular economy continued into a doctoral research and I graduated as a Doctor of Philosophy about 10 years ago. The research projects have changed, but the circular economy has been the backbone of each project.

Currently, I am project manager of the UC-Mobility project, which is developing new technological solutions for recovering critical raw materials from end-of-life electric scooters and electronic bikes. In addition, teaching is an essential part of my work. I teach analytical chemistry and circular economy, especially in the field of metal recovery.

Valuable work

I feel that I am doing very meaningful work. Through the circular economy, we can slow down the use of natural resources and reduce climate and other environmental impacts. It also enables self-sufficiency in critical materials and materials both in Finland and in Europe. In addition, circular economy research contributes to the sustainable use of natural resources by improving the efficiency of organic and inorganic raw materials.

The best thing about my job is definitely its versatility. I can do new and different things every day and learn new things. New projects bring variety and collaborative projects give me the opportunity to work with researchers and experts from outside the Ä¢¹½Ö±²¥.

Walking alongside the student at the heart of the action

Teaching students, and in particular supervising doctoral students is also rewarding.  It's great to be involved with students and PhD students from the first day to graduation. I mentor and support them over a number of years and I am able to see them through their developmental path. Walking alongside and guiding the dissertation student makes the relationship very close and it is always sad when the work ends after the dissertation. The relationship luckily continues and can also lead to new collaborative projects.

Cooperation works at the Department of Chemistry

The community of the circular economy is inclusive, communal and easy to work with. I can always ask anyone for help and discuss problems together, for example in the coffee room. We often have recreational activities. For example we go ice skating together on Lake Jyväsjärvi in winter.

My supervisor, Professor Ari Väisänen, has also been invaluable. We have a shared history for more than 10 years in the field of circular economy. We share both joys and sorrows together. It is valuable when a supervisor understands.