University of Otago

The newly established Finnish Centre of Excellence in Immune – Endothelial Interfaces (IMMENs) invites applications for a fixed-term (2-years) position of 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 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.  What we offer The initial appointment is for 2 years and includes a possibility for extension upon success in doctoral research. The position will be filled immediately upon identification of suitable candidates. The starting date is negotiable. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience based on the University of Helsinki guidelines. The chosen applicant is expected to reside in Finland while employed by the University of Helsinki.  The work is supervised by Dr. Kari Vaahtomeri and takes place in the context of the active research community of IMMENs groups. The research group has prominent international connections and is located at the medical campuses in the University of Helsinki. The immediate research environment provides state-of-the-art facilities, cutting-edge expertise in vascular-, tumor-, immunological- and stem cell biology, and great synergy with renowned research groups. More information on the IMMENS and Vaahtomeri research group can be found here:  https://www.helsinki.fi/en/researchgroups/immune-endothelial-interfaces  https://www.helsinki.fi/en/researchgroups/cell-communication How to apply Please submit your application as a single PDF file through the University of Helsinki Recruitment System by clicking the “Apply now” button.  Applicants who are already employees of the University of Helsinki are requested to submit their application via the ”Employee Login” button. Please attach the following documents as a single PDF file: A cover letter that details your previous knowledge and research interests and motivation for applying this position CV, including a possible list of publications Transcript of study records Contact details of at least two referees For more information on the position and specific projects, please contact Dr. Kari Vaahtomeri (kari.vaahtomeri@helsinki.fi). If you need technical support with the recruitment system or additional information about the application process, please contact HelsinkiUni Help, uni-help@helsinki.fi.  The closing date for the applications is on Wednesday the 13th of May 2026. Recent relevant publications: Liaqat et al. “Spatially targeted chemokine exocytosis guides transmigration at lymphatic endothelial multicellular junctions”. The EMBO Journal. 2024 Aug;43(15):3141-3174. doi: 10.1038/s44318-024-00129-x. Can Ucar et al. ”Self-organized and directed branching results in space-filling coverage in developing dermal lymphatic networks”. Nat Commun. 2023 Sep 21;14(1):5878. doi: 10.1038/s41467-023-41456-7.  About us The University of Helsinki (UH), founded in 1640, is a vibrant scientific community of 40,000 students and researchers. It is one of the leading multidisciplinary research universities and ranks among the top 100 international universities in the world. It is currently investing heavily in life sciences research. UH offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care and health insurance, sports facilities, and opportunities for professional development.  The Faculty of Medicine promotes high quality scientific research. It provides research-based undergraduate and postgraduate education in medicine, dentistry, psychology and logopedics, and an international Master's Program in Translational Medicine. It also offers psychotherapist education. In addition to its teaching and research activities, the Faculty serves as a significant expert organization in the healthcare sector and contributes to the discourse on ethics in the field. The Faculty aims to be one of the best medical research faculties in the world, while reinforcing its status as a distinguished institution of multidisciplinary education in healthcare.  The Faculty of Medicine at the University of Helsinki constitutes the academic medical center together with HUS Helsinki University Hospital and the Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE). This medical center has been successful in international comparisons, ranking among the top 10 medical campuses in Europe and the top 50 globally.  A diverse and equitable study and work culture is important to us. That is why we do our best to promote an inclusive university community. We encourage all qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply for our positions. Click this link to read about accessibility and inclusivity at our University. JOIN US TO BUILD A BETTER WORLD – TOGETHER! #HelsinkiUniCareers

0.4fte (Fixed term for 6 months) Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) is a distinctive, unique institution, rooted in the Liverpool City Region and with a global presence. Our students and staff, past, present, and future, are the beating heart of our city and can be found in every corner of every industry and community. We couldn’t exist anywhere else and have shaped the city in which we belong. Working with the people of Liverpool to improve lives and support communities is at the heart of why we were founded and why we exist today. We are looking for a person with a good Honours Degree in Geography, Geology, Anthropology, Archaeology, Forensic Science, Environmental Science or a similar subject, to work as a part-time Research Assistant with Professor Hunt in a laboratory-based project on the geoarchaeology of the Neanderthal “Flower Burials” at Shanidar Cave, Iraq. The contract is for six months. The work will involve the analysis of sediments, recording of laboratory results, data entry and contribution to the drafting of reports and research papers. Full training will be given in the sediment analysis techniques necessary for the work. You should be an enthusiastic and highly organised individual who will be expected to participate in all aspects of the programme of work, including: the day-to-day running of the research project; sediment granulometry and geochemistry, data recording, entry and interpretation; communicating with Professor Hunt and the wider Shanidar Project team, and assisting with the production of internal reports and manuscripts for publication. In return, we offer an excellent benefits package including generous annual leave entitlement, pension scheme, induction and development support as well as family-friendly policies. This is an exciting time to join the university as we deliver the LJMU Strategy 2030 and its vision of LJMU as an inclusive civic university transforming lives and futures, by placing students at the heart of everything we do. If you feel that this is the role you have been looking for and your skills and experience can make a real difference at LJMU, we look forward to hearing from you. LJMU is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds and communities irrespective of age, transgender status, disability, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity and religion or belief. All our appointments are made on merit. Please note all of our vacancies will be closed to applications at midnight on the advertised closing date, unless otherwise stated. LJMU are committed to adhering to the Principles set out in the Researcher Development Concordat; in line with this all fixed-term researchers will be supported to complete 10 days professional development activities per year (pro-rata). 

Location Docklands Campus Salary £39,824 to £45,281 per annum inclusive of London Weighting Post Type Full Time Post Type Permanent Closing Date Thursday 30 April 2026 Reference 0659-26-PS At the University of East London (UEL), our mission is to prepare students for the careers of the future while shaping that future inclusively and sustainably. As a careers-first university, we believe education and opportunity should be open to all, and that diversity of people and thought is essential to solving society’s biggest challenges. Founded in 1898 as the West Ham Technical Institute, UEL has always championed industry-focused education and social mobility, earning the name “The People’s University” for its commitment to widening access to technical and professional learning. While our scale and ambition have grown, our purpose has remained constant: empowering communities, advancing social justice, and equipping students with future-proof skills to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Today, UEL continues this legacy through pioneering research, employer-engaged education, and meaningful community impact. We are tackling health and economic inequalities, promoting sustainability, and helping to build a more inclusive and resilient future. Guided by our ambitious Vision 2028  strategy, UEL is reshaping education for the benefit of all, empowering students from every background with the skills and opportunities to succeed. Our commitment to excellence is recognised nationally; we are proud to be named University of the Year for Teaching Quality in the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025. At UEL, we don’t just teach, we inspire, innovate and empower, shaping the future together. About Us At the University of East London (UEL), we are transforming futures through our ambitious Vision 2028 strategy, placing careers, inclusion and real-world impact at the heart of everything we do. Our Careers and Student Enterprise (CaSE) service is the employability and enterprise hub of the University, supporting students to develop the skills, confidence and connections needed to succeed in today’s global workforce. We are proud to be building innovative, high-impact programmes that improve student outcomes, progression and graduate success—and Mentoring for All (MFA) is a key part of that vision. About the Role At the University of East London, our Vision 2028 strategy sets out our ambition to become the UK’s leading careers-first university. A central strand to this work is Mentoring for All, a university-wide commitment to ensuring every learner can access meaningful, high-quality mentoring. We are seeking a dynamic and driven Mentoring Programme Officer to take ownership of one of the flagship strands of this commitment, The Power Hour. Designed as a scalable, high-impact initiative, Power Hour ensures that all final year students benefit from a structured, one-hour mentoring experience with a trained external mentor, including alumni, industry professionals and partners This role sits at the heart of delivery and combines programme management, workshop facilitation, student triage, mentor coordination, stakeholder engagement, data tracking and quality assurance. You will work closely with the wider Mentoring team and our delivery partner The 1 Hour Project to ensure the programme operates efficiently, inclusively and at scale, while contributing meaningfully to institutional mentoring and employability ambitions. Key Responsibilities Lead the delivery and coordination of the Power Hour mentoring programme across its annual cycle Design and deliver engaging preparatory workshops (online and in-person) for students Manage student engagement, including communications, triage, and programme progression Coordinate and support the recruitment, training and management of external mentors Match students with appropriate mentors based on interests, goals and background Maintain accurate programme data, tracking engagement, outcomes and KPIs Produce regular reports and contribute to programme evaluation and continuous improvement Build strong relationships across the University and with external partners to support programme growth Promote Mentoring for All and increase student engagement through targeted campaigns and events About You We are looking for an organised, proactive, and confident professional who thrives in a delivery-focused environment and is equally comfortable facilitating engaging workshops, supporting students one-to-one, coordinating external partners and using data to evidence impact and drive improvement. You will bring experience in mentoring, employability, student engagement or programme coordination, alongside strong stakeholder management skills and a commitment to widening access to opportunity. In return, you will join a forward-thinking, mission-led institution where mentoring and social mobility are embedded at the core of our strategy. This is more than a mentoring role, it is an opportunity to shape a high-visibility initiative that directly enhances student confidence, professional networks, and graduate outcomes. If you are passionate about embedding a culture of mentoring and delivering scalable, high-quality student experiences that make a measurable difference, we would love to hear from you. What You’ll Need to Thrive You’ll thrive in this role if you are highly organised, people-focused and driven by impact. You’ll enjoy working in a fast-paced environment, building relationships, and creating meaningful opportunities for students to connect with mentors and industry. A genuine passion for student success, employability and widening participation will be key to your success. Benefits Package At UEL, we believe that a great role is about more than just a salary. It’s about the complete package, including our outstanding work environment and inclusive culture. We offer a genuinely competitive salary, dependent on experience (DOE), and a range of excellent benefits. You can explore our full benefits package here: https://uel.ac.uk/benefits-professional-services-positions Building an Inclusive Future As an inclusive, equal-opportunities employer, our Stonewall membership and Athena Swan awards reflect our ongoing dedication to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and we’re committed to closing the "diversity pay gap". We’re proud of the progress we’ve made and honest that there’s more to do. We’re determined to keep moving forward so everyone at UEL can thrive. We're a disability confident employer and value all applications. Please let us know if you require any reasonable accommodations throughout the recruitment process. So, if you’d like to take your career to the next level with us here at the University of East London and are inspired by our environment and commit to success, we want you to apply today! Please note that this advert may close earlier than the stated deadline if we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible. We are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this position. Applicants must therefore already have the right to work in the UK at the time of application. Further Details Job Description & Person Specification To contact the recruitment team please phone +44 20 8223 3000 x 4600 or e-mail jobs@uel.ac.uk CVs without a completed application form will not be accepted. At UEL we are committed to working together to build a community which values diversity in both our staff and student populations, is representative and inclusive, enabling all to progress and thrive.