Experiences in DSII studies: “I’ve found my own way, and learned to be independent”

Mikko Salo has gained confidence as a decision maker during his time as DSII doctoral researcher. In his doctoral research, Salo has worked on creating a method for measuring paper’s bending stiffness in a paper machine during manufacturing.

Photo: Mikko Viitamäki

Generally, paper needs to be fully created and out of the machine before any possible mistakes in b

ending stiffness can be observed. If Salo’s research leads to practice, mistakes can be fixed through automation before a roll of paper is out of the machine, which in turn will lessen paper waste significantly.

Mikko Salo has done his doctoral research in collaboration with Tampere University and Valmet.

Valmet is a global technology leader, serving process industries. One of these industries is their board and paper industry, that covers the entire lifecycle of papermaking processes.

Salo found his way to DSII by a professor’s recommendation when he was graduating with his master’s degree from automation engineering at Tampere University. Salo also had previous experience of collaborating with Valmet during his master’s studies.

Salo is happy with how his collaboration with Valmet has gone. People at the company have been friendly and cooperative.

“When I have needed something, contacting Valmet has been easy. Even when I drop by without notice, they help me conduct a test”, Salo describes.

Salo’s research focus took an unexpected turn from automation technology to structural mechanics due to problems in the practical application of the prototype he was working with. Salo adapted to this change well by studying solid mechanics and is now all the wiser for it.

“It kept me from getting bored”, Salo says jokingly.

A path to personal growth

The biggest highlight of Salo’ s time as a doctoral researcher has been learning independence in decision making. This started as his biggest challenge but grew into his greatest strength.

The freedom to make big decisions regarding his research was not something Salo was used to doing, but he quickly grew accustomed to it and even started to enjoy it.

“Finding my own way has been a highlight of my studies”

Salo now finds it rewarding to be able to trust his own judgement in making decisions related to his work and research. Especially when his ideas prove to be successful.

“The best part is when I set the direction of my own work, do the work and then finally find results.” Salo explains.

Salo’s supervisors have helped him along the way in determining the validity of his results.

“It’s a great feeling to have the results of my research accepted as correct.”

Valmet has been great in allowing Salo to test out his ideas in their labs whenever necessary.

The independence and flexibility of doctoral studies have enabled Salo to work in different locations based on the needs of his research. If he wants, he has the possibility to work in the company labs, at home, or at the university – which gives him a specific kind of freedom.

“I do well in this kind of work because I get to do it at my own pace, and where and when I want to”, Salo explains.

Despite enjoying freedom, Salo finds it useful to set dates for his progress to stay on track.

Salo doesn’t know yet where he will end up working after his graduation, but he sees perks both in working in a company and in academia.  He now has extensive experience in both fields.

DSII experience

Salo would absolutely recommend DSII to others who are interested in doctoral studies. He states that DSII allows for a different kind of experience in doctoral research.

“It’s not only flipping through papers but also getting to do things hands-on.”

Out of DSII activities, Salo has most enjoyed visits to various industry destinations, which DSII organizes yearly for its doctoral researchers. DSII even made a visit to Valmet, where Salo got to present his work for his fellow doctoral researchers.

“There’s a friendly feeling to DSII”, Salo assures.