Piia Jõul

Overview

Piia Jõul is a Research Fellow at Tallinn University of Technology's School of Science, Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology. She holds a Doctor's Degree (2021) and Master's Degree (2015) from the same institution, specializing in Analytical Chemistry and Environmental Analysis.

Education

• PhD: Chemistry and Gene Technology (2015–2021)
• MSc: Applied Chemistry and Biotechnology (2013–2015, cum laude)
• BSc: Applied Chemistry and Biotechnology (2010–2013)
• Secondary Education: Kose Gymnasium (1998–2010)

Research Interests

Jõul focuses on analytical chemistry, particularly in sample preparation, environmental harmful compound analysis, and green chemistry methodologies. Her work emphasizes applications in environmental monitoring, phytochemical screening, and advanced materials (e.g., carbon aerogels). She has pioneered methods for detecting pollutants such as organophosphorus pesticides and sulfur mustard degradation products in environmental samples.

Projects

Current projects include:

• Chemical and biological valorization of biomass (€1.1M, 2024–2028)
• Evaluation of plant extracts' antioxidant/antibacterial activity (€225K, 2022–2025)

Awards

Recipient of multiple Dora Pluss mobility grants (2015–2019) and finalist in TTÜ's Three Minute Thesis Competition. Supported by NATO and Estonian Research Council grants.

Teaching & Supervision

Jõul teaches BSc/MSc courses in Instrumental Analysis, Separation Methods, and Mass Spectrometry. She has supervised four master’s theses, including studies on pectin extraction, aerogel preparation from wood waste, and phytochemical analysis of Epilobium species.

Labs & Networks

Active member of the EuChemS-DAC Sample Preparation Study Group. Collaborates with the Estonian Center of Analytical Chemistry and NATO's MODUM project on chemical warfare agent monitoring.