Lauri Vares, associative professor of organic chemistry

Mission

The major goal of our research is to develop efficient and ‘green’ solutions in organic synthesis. We are accomplishing this in several ways: either by substituting fossil oil based starting materials with chemicals from renewable sources, or alternatively, by developing more efficient asymmetric transformations for the synthesis of important compounds or building blocks.

As an example of the current activity, we are developing novel isosorbide based polymers. Isosorbide is a rigid, nontoxic diol obtainable from cellulose.The main advantage of isosorbide from a material point-of-view is its rigidity, thermostability and stereochemically fixed structure. The currently accessible bio-based polymers tend to be too soft, especially at elevated temperatures. We would mostly focus on converting isosorbide into advanced high-performance polymers. These could provide highly scratch resistant surfaces, and may also be employed as high-performance plastics for the automotive and construction industry. In addition, we have shown its potential to replace styrene and other fossil-based components currently used as coatings for paper and cardboard based packages.

Projects available

We are always interested in ambitious coworkers. Currently we offer several B.Sc. and M.Sc. projects within the areas of green chemistry and development of new methodology. For more information contact Lauri Vares (lauri.vares@ut.ee)

We are looking for a new PhD student to join the group. The candidate for the PhD position is expected to carry out research focused on green chemistry and synthesis of novel monomers and polymers from bioderived sources. Polymer design and characterization will be carried out in collaboration with Lund University in Sweden. By developing easily recyclable low environmental impact materials could make a significant impact towards more sustainable future. To apply, please contact lauri.vares@ut.ee