Masters of the steel universe – Ovako’s thesis program

At Ovako we particularly value our partnerships with universities and aim to engage with talented graduate students who are keen to contribute to the development of the modern steel industry. That is why we have developed our thesis program. It provides the opportunity for around a dozen students to work with us each year on research that addresses real-world industrial challenges as part of their Masters qualifications.

Typically, we welcome Master of Science (MSc) engineering students in disciplines such as materials science/metallurgy, mechanical engineering, process engineering, industrial management, automation, and energy/environment. However, we have the flexibility to accommodate students with other technical or scientific backgrounds—what matters most is their interest and willingness to contribute to the ongoing transformation of the steel industry.

It is important to stress that the thesis work at Ovako is not theoretical. It is highly practical and hands-on, with the aim of addressing specific challenges facing the steel industry now and in the near future. So the graduates joining the program work closely with experienced specialists in areas including:

• Metallurgy and microstructures
• Process improvement and production technology
• Energy efficiency and sustainability
• Digitalization, modeling, and data analysis
• Product development

To find out more about the thesis program we spoke to two members of Ovako’s class of 2026:

Nea Kiiveri – Attached to Ovako’s Imatra steel and rolling production unit

When did you start your thesis with Ovako?
I started my thesis in September 2025, and it was completed in March 2026, so it took a total of seven months.

What were you doing before starting on your thesis?
Before starting my thesis, I completed my remaining masters courses and worked in a petrochemical laboratory focusing on olefin and aromatic products.

What is the theme of your thesis?
My thesis investigated the suitability of OES-PDA (optical emission spectroscopy pulse distribution analysis) as a tool for production control. The aim was to determine whether it could be used to obtain a sufficiently accurate overview of non-metallic inclusions in steel samples at an early stage. Inclusions must of course be closely controlled to enable Ovako to produce clean steel.

During the research, I examined whether OES-PDA could systematically detect differences between steel grades exposed to different calcium treatments. The measurement results were also compared with ternary diagrams produced by SEM-EDS (Scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive x-ray).

How will the research help Ovako?
The method can quickly provide an early-stage overview of non-metallic inclusions in steel, which can support both process and quality control. It also has the potential to reduce analysis time, thereby facilitating development work. The method does not increase the workload of current analyses and provides valuable information about the samples.

How did you come to join Ovako’s thesis program?
I previously completed an internship at Ovako’s chemical laboratory about seven years ago, so I was already somewhat familiar with the mill. Ovako's operations align well with my field of study, and I find the processes interesting, so I hoped to do my master's thesis there. I sent an open application to the Imatra site, where I explained my background, studies, and research interests. Shortly after, we began discussing potential thesis topics.

I will soon graduate with a master’s degree in chemical and metallurgical engineering. After that, I hope to find a meaningful role where I can apply my skills and continue developing professionally.

Beulah Mortey – Attached to Ovako R&D 

When did you start your thesis with Ovako?
I started in January this year with the aim of completing it in June.

What were you doing before starting on your thesis?
I am originally from Ghana. I'm currently in my second year of my masters in manufacturing engineering at University West in Trollhättan.

What is the theme of your thesis?
In my attachment to Ovako’s R&D team I have been investigating the laser beam welding of Hybrid Steel®with a specific focus on fuel injector applications for engines. Because this alloy has a relatively high carbon equivalence (CE) number content there is a potential risk of hot cracking.

I have been running trials with different process parameters, looking at the laser power, the travel speed during welding and the depth of focus. The aim is to see if we can achieve a good welding profile.

How will the research help Ovako?
The general aim of hybrid steel is to bridge the properties of tool steels, maraging steels, and stainless steels. By establishing its suitability for laser welding we will open up the possibility for its use in cost-effective mass production processes.

How did you come to join Ovako’s thesis program?
The opportunity came through my university supervisor. He suggested Ovako would be the ideal company for my industrial placement.

A thesis project at Ovako offers a chance to work at the heart of industrial production where technology, innovation, and sustainability meet. For more information see our careers page.