What’s your research about and how does it connect with SUCCeSS vision? 

Siri Talme. Photo: Private.

In my doctoral research, I’m investigating the production of lignin-based carbon materials as potentially sustainable alternatives to mined and synthetic fossil-derived carbons that play important roles in our society. I also investigate the use of the lignin-derived carbons for energy- and environmental applications. My research is part of the ERC-funded project CIRCULIG. Lignin is an alternative feedstock, and it is a major by-product from the paper- and pulp industry. It has a high carbon content above 60%. On the other hand, it is also considered challenging to work with because of its complex and amorphous structure. I would therefore say that my research connects to the SUCCeSS vision for several reasons, since we are aiming towards more circular and sustainable production of carbon by upcycling of lignin. 

What do you think that SUCCeSS should do more in the future? 

SUCCeSS is already a great platform bringing researchers from different fields together, however, I think that in the future, SUCCeSS should work even more on encouraging chemistry students at all levels to join events/webinars. I believe that this can increase the interest for interdisciplinary research and understanding of how scientists are currently working to achieve circular and sustainable systems.

How do you think that you could benefit from being part of SUCCeSS? 

I think that being part of SUCCeSS and to participate in board meetings gives me an understanding of the practical work behind a platform like this, which I think will be beneficial in the future. Being part of SUCCeSS also broadens my knowledge about sustainable and circular research. For example, both me and Yasmini Portes Abraham Silva being the PhD student representatives for SUCCeSS could join in the audience during the launch of the “Stockholm Declaration on Chemistry for the Future” at the Nobel Prize Museum in Stockholm on the 23rd May 2025. It was part of the events surrounding the Nobel Symposium on Chemistry for Sustainability that was hosted by SUCCeSS. It was inspiring to listen to the speakers and I strongly recommend watching the available recording, and to reading the declaration!