Who can participate, and how is life science defined?
The program is intended for students interested in life science research that are enrolled in BSc, MSc or Lic (Med and Vet Med) Degree Programs at the University of Helsinki. Students from the Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Science and Faculty of Medicine can participate in this programme.
Can I get credits for this training period?
It is strongly encouraged that you try to implement the practical training as a part of your degree and be prepared to explain how you will do that to the selection committee. However, policies differ between different study programs and you should consult the guidelines of your study programme to find out how to credit this period as a part of your degree.
Why should I consider applying?
This is an opportunity to work as a part of a research group on a topic that you find fascinating. You are expected to learn new things and improve your analytical, communication, teamwork and technical skills. You will build new personal and professional connections and experience what it is like to be a member of the academic research group. If you are selected, you will be offered a monthly salary covering the living costs.
What information is required for the application?
To be eligible, the application must include the following three attachments as a single pdf-file:
1. Motivation letter (max 1 page): describe your motivation to do research, explain what research topic interests you the most and why, and define an outstanding question in that field. Describe how the internship would benefit your future.
2. CV, which includes research and other work experience (max 2 pages).
3. Most recent study transcript (which you can order in Sisu).
Where can I start looking for research groups?
The webpages of University of Helsinki Life Science departments and research institutions are a good way to source what type of research is conducted.
Institute of Biotechnology
Neuroscience Center
Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland
Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry
Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences
Faculty of Medicine
Faculty of Pharmacy
Faculty of Science
Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
A good way to find a suitable lab abroad is to check the corresponding authors of publications you find interesting.
How are the applications evaluated?
The applications will be scored independently by the members of the HiLIFE EDU committee. We look for curious, ambitious, independent, and self-reliant students. The committee will evaluate your previous success in studies and will pay special attention to your motivation letter. The best ranked applicants will be invited for an interview with the HiLIFE EDU committee.
Who will be in the selection committee?
The HiLIFE EDU committee includes researchers from different HiLIFE units, representing different disciplines of life sciences.
What is expected of me if I am selected?
- You are expected to directly contact the host research group of your interest after you have received a notice of your selection – not before (help is provided for this).
- You will conduct a full-time research project for 4 months.
- You need to adhere to the guidelines of your study programme in order to obtain credits.
- You are expected to contribute to the programme social media outreach (Twitter, Instagram, HiLIFE Trainees Blog).
Where can I get more information?
There will be an information event about the programme on Wednesday, 6 October 2021 at 15.00–16.00 via Zoom (https://helsinki.zoom.us/j/67660458355?pwd=eDN1cEJsdlFLa1ZJbit1VnBjWE9Mdz09). You may also send enquiries to hilife-edu@helsinki.fi.
Where and when can I apply?
Applications are to be sent as a single pdf file through the Mobility Online Portal. Application period is Sept 1 - Oct 15 2021. Late applications will not be considered.
When will I know if I got selected?
You will be informed by November 15 if you have been selected for an interview. Interviews will be conducted during November 2021 and decisions on the awarded grants will be announced shortly after the interview.
When should I conduct the internship?
The internships must be conducted by the end of December 2022.
What is HiLIFE?
HiLIFE is a new life science institute at the University of Helsinki established in 2017 supporting high quality research across campuses and life science faculties. HiLIFE builds on existing strengths and new recruits and partnerships to create an attractive international environment for solving grand challenges in health, food and the environment. HiLIFE operates across faculties that conduct research and education in life sciences. https://www.helsinki.fi/en/helsinki-institute-of-life-science/about