The ÄIO team believes that innovation thrives when passionate young minds have the opportunity to grow, learn, and challenge the status quo. "We are excited to announce the ÄIO scholarship in collaboration with the Development Fund — a €2,000 grant for a bachelor’s degree student at Tallinn University of Technology," said ÄIO's Head of Commercial, Mariane Barrier enthusiastically.
Why did you decide to support TalTech students?
Science and technology shape the future, and Estonia needs bold and forward-thinking researchers to drive sustainable innovation. At ÄIO, we are developing microbial oils as a sustainable, game-changing alternative to palm oil and animal fats, offering breakthrough solutions for the food, cosmetics, and chemical industries.
TalTech has played a significant role in shaping ÄIO’s journey. Several of our scientists were educated at TalTech, and our co-founder, Petri-Jaan Lahtvee, completed all his degrees there. Today, Petri is professor tenuris at TalTech, educating the next generation of scientists and leading ÄIO’s groundbreaking research.
Moreover, ÄIO itself is a TalTech spinoff, founded to bring cutting-edge research to life and create sustainable alternatives to traditional fats and oils. Now, we want to give back — by providing a young, motivated student with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a fast-growing biotech startup.
What does the ÄIO scholarship offer to the recipient?
The €2,000 scholarship is more than just financial support — it’s an invitation to join ÄIO’s research team, working alongside top scientists and innovators. The selected student will:
- gain practical experience in an innovative lab environment,
- work on real-world projects that contribute to a more sustainable future,
- learn from experienced researchers in a rapidly developing biotech startup,
- build a strong foundation for a future career in science and technology.
Why do you consider supporting young people important — what benefits do you see?
We see this scholarship as an investment — not just in one student, but in the future of science, sustainable innovation, and Estonia’s role in the global biotech sector. Our hope is that this opportunity will inspire young scientists to push boundaries, think creatively, and contribute to urgent global solutions.
We are delighted to collaborate with the Development Fund. Its mission aligns perfectly with ÄIO’s values — to motivate students, nurture talent, and foster groundbreaking research that strengthens the Estonian economy and beyond.
Who are you inviting to apply?
We invite bachelor’s degree students from TalTech who are passionate about biotechnology, sustainability, and research to apply.
Apply for the ÄIO scholarship and take a step towards an exciting scientific career!