Postdoctoral Researcher, Centre of Excellence in Immune - Endothelial Interfaces (IMMENs)

Postdoctoral Researcher, Centre of Excellence in Immune - Endothelial Interfaces (IMMENs)

University of Helsinki - Faculty of Medicine

Helsinki, Finland

The newly established Finnish Centre of Excellence in Immune – Endothelial Interfaces (IMMENs) invites applications for two fixed-term (2-years) positions of Postdoctoral Researcher. The successful candidates will work in the research groups of Dr. Taija Mäkinen and 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 University 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. The research will provide foundation for translational studies aimed at more effective therapies for precise modulation of immune responses.

Who are we looking for

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

• Vascular biology;
• Immunology;
• Cell Biology.

At the postdoctoral level, the candidate should have a PhD degree in appropriate biological or medical subject. The PhD degree must have been obtained no more than three years prior to the application deadline. The three year period can be extended due to circumstances such as sick leave or parental leave. Previous experience in cell biology, vascular biology, mouse models, immunology or high-end imaging approaches is considered an advantage. Candidates should be able to demonstrate abstract thinking as well as the potential to develop and pursue scientific projects in the fields relevant for this call. Furthermore, the candidate should have excellent communication skills in English and the ability to work in an international environment.