Taken For Granted: Improving the working lives of grant researchers at the University of Helsinki
Monday 7th December, 17.00–18.30, Think Corner (Yliopistonkatu 4)
Grant researchers are a vital part of research at the University of Helsinki. Yet many work without an employment contract, which means no occupational healthcare, no guaranteed workspace and no access to the benefits their contracted colleagues have.
Over the past year, we’ve listened to hundreds of grant researchers. Again and again, we’ve heard people describe themselves as ‘second-class workers’. Many want to teach, supervise or take training courses to develop their careers, but can’t. Above all, people want to feel more included in the University community and be recognised for the funding and research they bring.
It doesn’t have to be this way. Other Finnish universities already treat grant researchers better, and we believe Helsinki can too.
That’s why we’re launching a campaign to improve the working lives of grant researchers, and we’d like you to be there.
What’s happening on the night?
- Hear from grant researchers as they share their stories.
- Find out what we’re asking for: the changes we want the University to make.
- Put our proposals to decision-makers. We’re inviting funders and University representatives to listen and commit to working with us.
- Meet like-minded colleagues and find out how you can get involved.
Why your presence matters
Decision makers will only take this seriously if they can see that grant researchers care. Every person in the room makes our case stronger.
Everyone is welcome. You don’t need to be a grant researcher or a union member to come. The event will be in English.
Accessibility. Think Corner has an accessible entrance located at the corner of Fabianinkatu and Yliopistonkatu. It’s facilities are barrier free, with lift access to all floors. Accessible toilet are located on floors K1 and 2, alongside other toilet facilities.
The campaign is run by HUART, the Helsinki University Association for Researchers and Teachers, part of the trade union Tieteentekijät. We represent researchers, teachers and academic professionals at the University of Helsinki, including grant researchers.
Please register below and share this page with other grant researchers in your network.