Doctoral Researcher in Cell Biology, Centre of Excellence in Immune - Endothelial Interfaces

The newly established Finnish Centre of Excellence in Immune - Endothelial Interfaces (IMMENs) invites applications for a fixed-term (2-years) position of a

Doctoral Researcher

The successful candidate will work in the research group of Dr. Kari Vaahtomeri at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki.

Scientific context

IMMENs, composed of research groups at the University of Helsinki (director Dr. Taija Mäkinen and Dr. Kari Vaahtomeri) and Åbo Akademi in Turku (Dr. Cecilia Sahlgren and Dr. Guillaume Jacquemet), investigates the role of lymphatic vessel endothelium in controlling immune responses. Current evidence shows that much of immune regulation occurs locally at the site of inflammation. Recent studies have revealed important crosstalk between lymphatic endothelium and immune cells, resulting in phenotypic changes that control immune cell trafficking, fate and function. IMMENs will develop novel experimental approaches to uncover the mechanisms and therapeutic potential of lymphatic endothelial immunomodulation in homeostasis, inflammation and tumorigenesis using in vivo genetic mouse models, advanced live and intravital imaging, engineered microchip models, primary cell co-culture systems and novel microscopy and analysis methods. In this context, Vaahtomeri laboratory addresses fundamental cell biology mechanisms of cell migration/interactions.

Who are we looking for

We are looking for candidates with a strong background in life sciences (for example, cell biology, biochemistry or mouse models). The candidate should be highly motivated to investigate key open questions in the fields of:

Cell Biology

Vascular biology

Immunology

At the pre-doctoral level, previous experience in cell biology, vascular biology, mouse models, immunology or high-end imaging approaches is considered an advantage.

Doctoral Researcher must obtain the right to pursue doctoral studies at the University of Helsinki within the trial period of six months. Candidates shoul