Department of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering

Department of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering

Researchers in the lab

Sustainable future in bio and circular economy

Our department focuses on sustainable utilization of raw materials, designing and developing more efficient processes for new materials and products. 

As chemical engineers, we contribute to shaping a sustainable future by developing processes that support the evolving circular economy and bioeconomy.

Rodrigo Serna

Head of Department / Associate Professor

Iiro Harjunkoski

Vice Head of Department / Associate Professor

Research

The department is in a key position in research of chemical engineering, materials technology, metals processing, efficient energy technologies and digitalization of these.

Our core competences include unit operations and processes in chemical engineering, hydro- and pyro-metallurgy, catalyst and polymeric materials, novel catalytic process, process control and process systems engineering.

Contact information

Collaboration and impact

See all the Aalto CHEM collaboration projects here

studying chemical engineering

Are you interested in studying at the School of Chemical Engineering? Here are our Chemistry and Metallurgical Engineering programmes:

See all our school's programmes

News

A person stands on a path surrounded by autumn trees with yellow leaves. They wear a dark coat and grey shirt.
Studies Published:

Chemical engineering student Mauri Hartikainen: “With metallurgy, you can truly make an impact in building a sustainable future”

Mauri Hartikainen chose sustainable metallurgy as his Master’s major because he wants to be involved in developing clean technology solutions. What fascinates him most about metals is their almost limitless recyclability.
Aalto Scientific Computing
Research & Art, Studies Published:

Scientific Computing Skills: a new umbrella course for all researchers

Today, computing skills are essential not only in academic research but also across industries. Take part in hands-on trainings provided by Aalto Scientific Computing and by partner organisations such as CodeRefinery and CSC IT Center for Science.
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Appointments Published:

Professor Iiro Harjunkoski has been appointed as Deputy Head of the Department of Chemical Engineering and Metallurgy

Professor Iiro Harjunkoski has been appointed as Deputy Head of the Department of Chemical Engineering and Metallurgy for the period 1 September 2025 to 31 December 2026.
A disassembled battery with its components laid out side by side: metal casing, inner sheets, crushed mass, powders, and coloured granulates.
Press releases, Research & Art Published:

Five things everyone should know about the materials powering the green transition

The green transition depends on more than just clean energy — it requires a massive, complex supply of critical raw materials, especially metals and minerals. From mining and refining to recycling and innovation, here are five key things everyone should know about the materials powering a sustainable future.

Events

AI in research work
Lectures and seminars, Staff trainings, Other staff training, Support for teams, Training to support research

AI in Research Work, April 28, 2026

Learn about generative artificial intelligence in research work with Data Agents Dr. Enrico Glerean and Dr. Pedro Silva
Red background with white geometric shapes: a semicircle on the left and a partial circle on the top right.
Lectures and seminars, Staff trainings, IT & digital tools, Support for teams, Training to support research

AI in research work -workshop, Apr 28, 2026 (external link)

Learn about using artificial intelligence (AI) tools in research.
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Lectures and seminars, Staff trainings, IT & digital tools, Support for teams, Training to support research, Workshops

Aalto AI Talks: Creative practices and generative AI 4.5.2026

Join us for an insightful afternoon exploring AI in creative processes and artistic practice, including copyright and AI-generated content.
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Lectures and seminars, Staff trainings, IT & digital tools, Support for teams, Training to support research

Responsible and ethical use of laboratory resources, May 5, 2026 (external link)

Learn about responsible and ethical use of laboratory resources.

More about our topics

BatCircle_DSC_6517_photo Valeria Azovskaya

Electrifying society

Solving the challenges of electrification is not just a scientific question: it requires extensive societal debate.

Iita Kejonen kuvattuna Aalto-yliopiston tiloissa.

Iita Kejonen is involved in recycling battery metals from electric cars: ‘By working in industry, I can influence the development of the entire field’

Studies in materials science and engineering at the School of Chemical Engineering led to work with battery metals and minerals. As a Technology Manager, Iita can influence the development of responsibility in the entire automotive sector.

News

Where to find us

Moving to Finland

Here new students and employees can find useful tips for a smooth moving.

We also gathered information about families and recreational activities.

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