“The Union is both a network and arena for me”

Anna Laakkonen, an information specialist, views the Union of Research Professionals as a vital community.  Anna works as a specialist in information and publishing services at Laurea University of Applied Sciences. The Union has offered her an arena for professional interactions and networking. Anna is clear on what types of values she wants to uphold as part of the scientific community.  

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Providing a sense of safety and belonging

Bridging gaps and fostering collaborations

Melissa Plath works as a project manager at the University of Helsinki. She has personal experience with the challenges and hurdles that international researchers are confronted with when settling in Finland. The Union of Research Professionals has offered Melissa a platform and community through which she can help to improve the conditions of international researchers in Finland.  

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The Union is a necessary bridge between individuals and the university

Panu Minkkinen serves as Professor of Jurisprudence at the University of Helsinki. He feels that the identity of an academic is, however, more important to him than titles and disciplines. The Union of Research Professionals offered Panu a home base when he returned to Finland from his positions abroad. Panu feels that the Union plays an important role as the defender of researchers and teachers in Finland.  

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