Research assistant - Vaahtomeri lab at Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program

The research group led by Dr. Kari Vaahtomeri at the Translational Cancer Medicine Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki and Wihuri Research Institute, Finland, invites applications for a position of

RESEARCH ASSISTANT

for a fixed term.

Vaahtomeri lab is a dynamic young research group. We are interested in the mechanisms of lymphatic capillary growth and immune cell trafficking. Lymphatic research is currently a hot topic since stimulation of lymphatic endothelium has been shown to boost adaptive immunity in inflammation-associated conditions, such as cancer, neurodegeneration and heart and coronary diseases.

Our research focuses on mechanisms of guided cell migration, i.e. how migrating cells find their target destination. In these studies, we use primary cell culture and in vivo models, genetic perturbations, state-of-the-art microscopy and image analyses.

We have a position for a fixed term (till 31.8.2023) for a research assistant/Pro Gradu student, who is motivated to investigate key open questions in the fields of:

- Cell biology

- Vascular biology

The candidate most suitable for the positions is expected to be enthusiastic about scientific research and keen to learn new techniques. Furthermore, he/she should have strong communication skills (English) and ability to work in an international environment. Experience in cell culture is beneficial but not required.

The position is suitable for a master’s thesis student (Pro-Gradu) and also for students at earlier phase of studies.

The candidate for research assistant position is expected to be enrolled in University bachelor or master’s degree study program.The candidate for master’s thesis position is expected to have enrolled in University master’s degree study program and to have bachelor’s degree.

The work is supervised by principal investigator Kari Vaahtomeri (Ph.D., Doc.). Our laboratory is located in the Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program, Biomedicum Helsinki, Faculty of medicine, University of Helsinki and Wihuri Research Institute.

The position is for 3-6 months and will be filled immediately upon finding of a suitable candidate. The job can be started either immediately or, for example, in May (“summer job”). Upon successful work period, extension of contract (research assistant or Ph.D. studies) is possible.

Please, enclose a CV, transcript of study records and a short motivation letter with your application.

Deadline for the applications is Tuesday 28th of February, 2023.

For more information on the position, please contact Kari Vaahtomeri (kari.vaahtomeri(at)helsinki.fi) and see Vaahtomeri et al. 2017, Cell Reports; Vaahtomeri et al. 2017, Genes & Development; Vaahtomeri et al. 2020, Cancer Research; Vaahtomeri et al. 2021 Front. Immunol.

Lab website: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/researchgroups/cell-communication .

The work is supervised by principal investigator Kari Vaahtomeri (Ph.D., Doc.). Our laboratory is located in the Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program, Biomedicum Helsinki, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki and Wihuri Research Institute.