Octarine’s mission is to solve our greatest health challenges by enabling innovative cannabinoid and psychedelic therapeutics. Many neurological and psychological conditionsare poorly served by current drugs, leavingphysicians, patients, and their families desperatelyseeking alternative therapies, sometimes illegally.Cannabinoids and psychedelics are poised to offerbreakthrough therapies for these debilitatingconditions, but to realize the full potential of thesemolecules, issues with their production andundesirable properties mustfirst be solved.Octarine is perfecting a biological approachto producing improved & novel cannabinoid and psychedelic molecules with tailored modes-of-action. Our proprietary technology combines synthetic biology, yeast fermentation and enzymatic derivatization to develop IP protected drug candidates that are validated in pre-clinical screening.
Job description
We’re looking for an experienced biological engineer with a background in microbial strain engineering to lead our efforts to produce natural and novel molecules with therapeutic function. As an important member of our molecular biology team, you will work to engineer biological systems to produce a range of molecules which will subsequently feed into our drug development platforms.
Typical responsibilities will include:
Design genetic strategies to improve the biosynthetic production of target molecules
Optimize HTP workflows for DNA assembly, strain engineering, and phenotypic analysis
Generate and test enzyme variants for improved function using in vitro and in vivo enzyme assays
Elucidate biosynthetic pathways to new molecules
Our ideal candidate will be able to handle as many of the following scientific areas as possible.
Metabolic engineering (particularly in yeast): Proven track record of engineering microbial cell factories to produce target molecules. As well as identify production bottlenecks and design and implement genetic strategies to overcome them.
HTP assay development: Experience developing HTP assays to identify improved enzyme variants and high producing strains
DNA assembly: Experience with modern DNA assembly workflows such as MoClo, USER cloning etc.
Computational analysis: Familiarity with statistical analysis of datasets, Bioinformatics tools and basic programming languages (e.g. Excel, Python, R)
Other useful (non-scientific) attributes which will be viewed favourably include.
Well organized: As a start-up things often move very fast! You will need to have exceptional organizational skills to keep up
Team player: Our research team functions as a well-oiled machine, working together to efficiently design and test hypotheses. You’ll need to thrive in a team environment and have fantastic communication skills to become a successful cog in our machine.
The right mind-set: A start-up can at times be a chaotic and highly dynamic environment, priorities can quickly change so you must be flexible enough to change direction.
Responsibility: We’re a small company with a flat hierarchy and we expect you to take responsibility for your role in it. You should be comfortable making important decisions on the direction of our research, and confident enough to see them through to completion.
Inter-disciplinary: We look for scientists who are comfortable working in multiple disciplines and are capable of picking up new skills
Professional requirements
PhD in synthetic biology, metabolic engineering, biochemistry or a related field
Experience supervising students/technicians
Demonstrated ability to successfully complete metabolic engineering projects e.g. through scientific publications and/or patents
What we can offer
Octarine is a young biotech company expanding rapidly to become a world-leader in the field. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of an ambitious and fast-paced company and play an active role in our growth and future success. We’re a friendly and social bunch and provide a fun but scientifically stimulating work environment. We’re also based in the centre of one of Europe’s most vibrant cities, and a country known for its high quality of life and exceptional work/life balance.
Applications will be assessed on a rolling basis with a preferred immediate start date.
Please apply with a CV including a brief motivation letter with your application.
Octarine’s mission is to solve our greatest health challenges by enabling innovative cannabinoid and psychedelic therapeutics. Many neurological and psychological conditions are poorly served by current drugs, leaving physicians, patients, and their families desperately seeking alternative therapies, sometimes illegally. Cannabinoids and psychedelics are poised to offer breakthrough therapies for these debilitating conditions, but to realize the full potential of these molecules, issues with their production and undesirable properties must first be solved. Octarine is perfecting a biological approach to producing improved & novel cannabinoid and psychedelic molecules with tailored modes-of-action. Our proprietary technology combines synthetic biology, yeast fermentation and enzymatic derivatization to develop IP protected drug candidates that are validated in pre-clinical screening.
Åbo Akademi University invites applications for a fixed-termed position as a project coordinator in bioimage analysis for the period 1.3.2021-28.2.2022 or as agreed. The fixed-termed position is full time.
We are looking for an experienced bioimage analyst to join the Turku BioImaging team. Turku BioImaging (www.bioimaging.fi) is a multi-disciplinary research infrastructure organization, jointly operated by Åbo Akademi University and the University of Turku, focusing on coordinating and organizing bioimaging-related activities and services in biology and medicine. Turku BioImaging manages also Euro-BioImaging Finland (www.eurobioimaging.fi), a European service organization consisting of the highest quality imaging services across Finland, at 6 universities and 3 university hospitals.
Modern bioimaging is the most used research methodology in life sciences, critically needed in nearly all research. Turku BioImaging services are therefore elemental in for instance cancer research, virus research and drug development. Image analysis and bioimage informatics in general are a central and fast growing part of modern bioimaging, and to develop this area of Turku BioImaging, a main task of the person to be hired is to establish Turku BioImaging Data Analysis Team, together with other members of Turku BioImaging. The Data Analysis Team will be a dedicated service for data management, analysis, integration and interpretation, and the team will work integrally within Health Campus Turku (www.healthcampusturku.fi), a multidisciplinary knowledge cluster of medicine, technology, social and health care.
Tags: bioimaging, bioimage informatics, image analysis, data management, machine learning
This task includes (but are not limited to):
Establish the Turku BioImaging Data Analysis Team activity
Meet researchers and core facility personnel from different fields and provide data management, analysis and interpretation consultation and service, using local and cloud-based hardware, open source and commercial software tools, and tailor-made algorithms and scripts.
Collaborate with other Turku BioImaging team members and other partners in for instance data management and related web services
QUALIFICATIONS
A suitable masters or doctoral degree, or similar
Experience in image and data analysis, including machine/deep learning
A service-oriented person with the ability to take initiative and responsibility, see multidisciplinary connections and work well in a team
Knowledge of image data management (for instance OMERO server) considered an advantage
Good communication skills in English and knowledge of Swedish. Foreigners and non-native Finnish citizens can be exempted from the requirement to have knowledge of Swedish.
Organizational skills are considered an advantage
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
We offer:
A dynamic working environment
Opportunities to interact with researchers with diverse expertise and participate in interesting biomedical research projects, innovating new solutions to complex data analysis tasks
Opportunities to take part in conferences, training events and international meetings
Opportunities to take initiative and develop yourself working in an area with great societal impact
A trial period applies to new employees. The position is located at Åbo Akademi University at Turku Bioscience in Turku, Finland. The working language is English.
SALARY
The salary is in accordance with the Finnish University salary system for other personnel job demand level 9. In addition, there is a salary component based on personal work performance, according to the general collective agreement for universities.
APPLICATION
Submit the electronic application form below, including CV.
Deadline for submission of application is on 15 February 2021 at 15:00 (Finnish time).
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Please, feel free to contact Turku BioImaging Research Manager, Dr. Pasi Kankaanpää, (pasi.kankaanpaa@abo.fi) for any questions in relation to the position.
Finnadvance (Oulu, Finland) and Medical Research Center (Prof., MD, PhD Kaisa Tasanen-Määttä, MRC, Oulu University) are looking for a SKIN-ON-CHIP SCIENTIST. You will develop our functional skin-on-chip model and work closely with both Finnadvance and MRC. This position is for 6 months project with a possibility of extension and will optimally result in a Master thesis.
KEY TASKS: – Developing the functional skin-on-chip model – Cell culture, biochemical experimentation, bio/microfabrication – Project documentation and reporting
REQUIRED SKILLS: – BSc in Biochemistry, Biomedical engineering or Biotechnology, or related field – Practical experience in sterile cell culture and imaging methods, biochemical experimentation; microfabrication and 3D culture skills are appreciated – Team working skills, multitasking and thorough attention to detail
If you are looking for your next challenge, send your resume, and motivation letter by 14.02.2021 to . The position will be filled immediately when an appropriate candidate has been found.
Finnadvance is looking for a highly motivated RESEARCH SCIENTIST to join our rapidly growing team. In this role you will run our internal research activities and quality management system. There will be a unique career development opportunity with intensive training in a highly regulated environment.
Finnadvance is a privately held biotechnology start-up formed of young engineers and scientists. Developing breakthrough solutions for personalized medicines, rapid drug discovery, and enabling animal-free research, we are now building the team of future enablers. Finnadvance is recipient of international awards, EU fundings and has been named the best technology startup of 2019 globally (MEDICA, SLUSH, Innovation World Cup). Finnadvance is scaling up its R&D activities to cater the growing demand for in-vivo like microphysiological systems in pharmaceutical and academic research.
KEY TASKS: – Formulate and execute Finnadvance’s internal research activities – Supervise laboratory personnel – Execute customer-specified projects – Drive continuous improvement on quality management
REQUIRED SKILLS: – PhD or equivalent in Biochemistry, Biomedical engineering or Biotechnology, or related field – Proven track record in the field of 3D cell biology and/or microfluidics – Extensive experience in mammalian cell culture, imaging methods and biochemical experimentation – Experience in quality management systems, 3D (bio)printing techniques, and programming skills is a plus
If you are looking for your next challenge, send your resume, and motivation letter by 15.02.2021 to The position will be filled immediately when an appropriate candidate has been found.
Finnadvance is looking for a highly motivated BIOFABRICATION LEAD, specialized in micro and bio-fabrication and microfluidic technologies, to join our rapidly growing team. In this role you will run our volume fabrication under our strict quality control system. There will be a unique career development opportunity with intensive training in a highly regulated environment.
Finnadvance is a privately held biotechnology start-up formed of young engineers and scientists. Developing breakthrough solutions for personalized medicines, rapid drug discovery, and enabling animal-free research, we are now building the team of future enablers. Finnadvance is recipient of international awards, EU fundings and has been named the best technology startup of 2019 globally (MEDICA, SLUSH, Innovation World Cup). Finnadvance is scaling up its production capability to cater the growing demand for in-vivo like microphysiological systems.
KEY TASKS: – Design, simulate and fabricate in-house developed microfluidics – Identify and implement appropriate manufacturing methods and materials for Finnadvance’s organ-on-chip devices – Rapid prototyping with the R&D team – Drive continuous improvement on quality management
REQUIRED SKILLS: – PhD or equivalent in Mechanical/Biomedical engineering, Bioengineering, Material science, or related – Industrial fabrication processes, specifically microfluidics and microelectrodes (photo-lithography, soft-lithography, injection molding, etc.) – CAD experience (2D and 3D technical drawing) – Programming skills, numerical fluid flow modelling – Multitasking and thorough attention to detail
If you are looking for your next challenge, send your resume, and motivation letter by 15.02.2021 to The position will be filled immediately when an appropriate candidate has been found.
We keep growing and we are now looking for DOWNSTREAM SPECIALISTS to reinforce our Manufacturing team.
Downstream is one of the four Manufacturing Streams. Downstream team focuses on the purification of the drug substance. We use chromatographic and filtration purification methods in our biological manufacturing process. The process itself is run by programmed production equipment.
Your primary responsibilities as Specialist include documentation of GMP operations and performing manufacturing operations hands-on in cleanroom environment according current GMP guidelines. The focus of documentation is on SOPs, deviations, change controls and CAPAs. You will also be the first support contact for the manufacturing operators.
It is an advantage if you already have some experience in GMP-work and/or you have knowledge on quality systems.
You could be the person if…
You enjoy the combination of hands-on work and documentation.
You produce clear, easily understandable and accurate documentation in English.
Your working style is precise and you achieve objectives set to you in a timely manner.
You pay attention to details but you also easily manage entities.
You want to develop yourself and become an expert in your own field.
In order to succeed, you would need a degree in the field of biotechnology, engineering, biochemistry, chemistry or any other related field of study.
As a person, we would like you to be open-minded towards new challenges and spread good team spirit. You also need to communicate fluently both in written and spoken English.
Our Manufacturing team is working in shifts.
We would like you to start preferably in March-April. We offer you active and lively work community with highly skilled and experienced personnel in gene therapy manufacturing. Working with us, you are entitled to good employment benefits, such as extensive occupational health-care and we support your physical and cultural free-time activities. We provide you wide initial training and a warm welcome. FinVector is located in vibrant Kuopio, which offers a safe living environment, friendly atmosphere and clean nature.
As our growth continues we are now looking for BUFFER PREPARATION SPECIALIST to join our Manufacturing team.
Buffer Prep. is one of the four Manufacturing Streams. Buffer Prep. team produces solutions used in our biological production process. Your main responsibilities as Specialist include writing and reviewing the documentation of GMP operations. The focus of documentation is on batch record reviews, SOPs, deviations, change controls and CAPAs. Furthermore, you will be (occasionally) performing manufacturing operations hands-on in cleanroom environment according to GMP- guidelines. You will also be the first contact for the production operators in problem solving situations.
It is an advantage if you already have some experience in GMP-work and/or you have knowledge on quality systems.
You could be the person if…
You produce clear, easily understandable and accurate documentation in English.
Your working style is precise and you achieve objectives set to you in a timely manner.
You want to develop yourself and become an expert in your own field.
In order to succeed, you would need a degree in chemistry, biochemistry, biotechnology or any other related field of study.
As a person, we would like you to be open-minded towards new challenges and spread good team spirit. You also need to communicate fluently both in written and spoken English.
Our Manufacturing team is working in shifts.
We would like you to start preferably in March-April. We offer you active and lively work community with highly skilled and experienced personnel in gene therapy manufacturing. Working with us, you are entitled to good employment benefits, such as extensive occupational health-care and we support your physical and cultural free-time activities. We provide you wide initial training and a warm welcome. FinVector is located in vibrant Kuopio, which offers a safe living environment, friendly atmosphere and clean nature.
The University of Helsinki (https://www.helsinki.fi/en) is an international scientific community of 40,000 students and researchers. It is one of the leading multidisciplinary research universities in Europe and ranks among the top 100 international universities in the world.
The Department of Computer Science (https://www.helsinki.fi/en/computer-science), which is part of the Faculty of Science, is a leading Computer Science research and teaching unit in Finland. The research themes of the Department cover machine learning and algorithms, computer networks and distributed systems, software systems and bioinformatics.
The Department of Computer Science, Faculty of Science, University of Helsinki invites applications for a
Doctoral Student in Genome-Scale Algorithmics
Position description
The team of Professor Veli Mäkinen is seeking for a PhD candidate in the areas of discrete algorithms, data structures, and computational biology. The position is funded by the Innovative Training Network (ITN) project “Algorithms for PAngenome Computational Analysis (ALPACA)” of the Horizon 2020 Marie Skłodowska-Curie (MSC) Work Programme. The candidate will join the Genome-Scale Algorithmics team of Professor Mäkinen, with strong links to the broad Algorithmic Bioinformatics community in Helsinki.
In our recent work we introduced a new concept called founder block graph. This is a graph structure that can model a pangenome (collection of all genomes of a species) in succinct manner. The blocks of this acyclic graph are founder sequences, i.e., predictions of DNA fragments of the ancestors of the species. Founder segments are connected from block to next block if such connections are supported by measurements from current DNA. We gave a linear time algorithm to construct small indexable founder block graphs. This feature allows to efficiently conduct genome analysis tasks on this sophisticated pangenome representation. The topic for the PhD candidate is to apply founder block graphs for human leukocyte antigen (HLA) analysis to support organ donation diagnostics. This research will be conducted together with our collaborators from the ALPACA network.
The starting date is in the early autumn 2021, with the exact date negotiable.
Requirements
The work involves research-related activities, including conducting theoretical and applied research, data analysis, writing research articles, participating in and presenting research at academic conferences, and teaching-related activities. You are also requested to do short stays at our collaborators, both abroad and inside Finland.
The ideal candidate has a strong background in discrete algorithms and data structures, and motivation to develop and apply algorithms in the context of bioinformatics. The following constitute an advantage, but are not required:
• Experience in implementing efficient code. • Experience with handling high-throughput DNA sequencing data. • Achievements at international programming contests such as IOI or ACM ICPC. • Previous research experience and publications. • Excellent written and oral communication skills in English are needed
Applicants should have an MSc degree in computer science, bioinformatics or a related field.
Applicants should satisfy the requirements of an Early Stage Researcher as defined by the MSC Work Programme: 1) On the starting date of your employment with the University of Helsinki, you are in the first four years of your research career and have not (yet) been awarded a doctoral degree; 2) You have not resided or have had your main activity (study, work, etc.) in Finland for more than 12 months during the 3 years prior to the starting date of your anticipated employment with the University of Helsinki.
Applicants are expected to acquire the doctoral student status in the Doctoral Programme in Computer Science at the University of Helsinki during the standard 6-month probationary period.
Salary and benefits
The position is full-time and funded for three years. The salary is competitive and complies with the MSC Work Programme: 3500 euros per month before taxes, consisting of Living and Mobility allowance after compulsory deductions. A conditional Family allowance of 385 euros can be added to the salary.
The University of Helsinki offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care and health insurance, sports facilities, and opportunities for professional development. The International Staff Services office (https://www.helsinki.fi/en/university/working-at-the-university) assists employees from abroad with their transition to work and live in Finland.
How to apply
Please submit your application with through the University of Helsinki Recruitment System by clicking the ´Apply for the position` button below.
The application shall include the following attachments as a single pdf file (in English):
• CV with possible publications • Cover letter describing motivation, research interests, and declaration of satisfying the MSC Work Programme requirements for an Early Stage Researcher • Contact details of two potential referees who agreed to provide letters of recommendation
Applications will be given full consideration if received by February 15, 2021, 23:59 (EET). Applications received after this date will still be considered, until the position is filled.
Additional information
For more information on the position, please contact Professor Veli Mäkinen (veli.makinen@helsinki.fi).
Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland FIMM, Helsinki Institute of Life Science HiLIFE, University of Helsinki FIMM is an internationally recognized unique biomedical research institute in Helsinki hosting the leading genetics and genomics research unit in Finland. FIMM successfully combines cutting edge research, technology and biobank collections under one roof, and actively collaborates with top researchers, research institutes and health-care companies to improve health and well-being on a global scale.
FIMM Technology Centre is a national and international research core unit providing an extensive spectrum of biomedical research services. FIMM Technology Centre operates several core units, which develop methods and offer services starting from sample management and preparation to genomics, metabolomics and bioinformatics.
Now we seek a
Laboratory technician
Projects, duties and qualifications
The main duties of the laboratory technician consist of sample management and preparations, equipment set-up/care and customer service. The position requires previous laboratory skills in RNA- and DNA preparations and experience in other types of sample preparations are also beneficial (e.g. urine/plasma/serum/Ficoll sample preparation, electron microscopy, ultracentrifugation). Learning and setting-up workflows for high-throughput sample extractions with new dedicated equipment will be an important part of the work.
The position offers the chance to master and develop truly versatile technologies and skills both in technical as well as in customer service work in a vibrant international research institute. We look for candidates with e.g. laboratory technician/analyst, bioanalyst, laboratory engineer or coordinator training, previous laboratory experience, evidence of initiative, versatility and organizational ability and good social skills. Enthusiasm in workflow and service development and good command of English will be appreaciated
The position is shared between EV/HiPrep Cores (head, PhD Maija Puhka) and biobanking activities (laboratory coord., PhD Tiina Vesterinen) and Beat DKD (diabetic kidney disease) project (PI, Prof. Leif groop), which are all operating at FIMM and share a common goal of high quality sample management and preparations. The successful candidate will help to offer and develop these methods or services: professional sample storage and pick-up, extracellular vesicle (EV) isolation and analytics as well as high capacity nucleic acid extractions and quality control.
Position, applications and contact information
Position will be available 1.2.-31.12.2021. The start date can be set according to agreement, but preference will be given to candidates who can start as early as possible. Salary will be based on the University salary scheme depending on the degree/work experience, likely on expert and support staff personnel requirement levels 5-7. Position will be filled as soon as a suitable candidate is found.
To apply, please submit the application through the University of Helsinki electronic recruitment system by clicking on Apply for job. Internal applicants (i.e., current employees of the University of Helsinki) please submit your applications through the SAP HR portal. The closing date is 31.01.2021 but review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
Please upload a single pdf-file containing a one-page cover letter, your CV, as well as contact information of 2 persons capable of providing a recommendation for the applicant.
For more information: Maija Puhka, p. +358 50 318 5775, e-mail maija.puhka@helsinki.fi (sample preparations) Tiina Vesterinen, p. +358 50 415 5553, e-mail tiina.vesterinen@helsinki.fi (sample storage and management)
The Biology of Neuro-Immune Interaction Laboratory at the HiLIFE-Neuroscience Center, University of Helsinki, is led by P.I. Dr. Francesco M. Noé . We are now seeking a postdoctoral fellow to join our lab.
The position is a full-time primary research fellowship for a postdoctoral scholar interested in pursuing a career in neuroscience, particularly in system neuroscience and in neuro-immunology. Postdoctoral fellow will be expected to develop original research projects focused on understanding the biological determinants of brain activity in physiological and pathological conditions, with specific focus on traumatic brain injury and epilepsy. Our current projects include understanding the role of neuro-immunity in the development of neurodegenerative diseases, and of CNS lymphatic system in brain functions.
The fellow will work on animal models of diseases and will have the possibility to use advanced investigation tools for in vivo neuroimaging (multiphoton and focused ultrasound), electroencephalography and behavioral, as well as flow cytometry and molecular biology. Postdoctoral fellow will be involved in all the aspects of data collection and analyses, and is expected to disseminate research findings via peer-reviewed manuscripts and scientific presentations at national and international conferences. S/he will be also involved in the supervision of PhD students, grant writing and in collaborative projects both in Finland and abroad.
Who we are looking for: To add relevant expertise to our lab, we are seeking a highly motivated neuroscientist with an interest to work in a multidisciplinary and challenging environment. The successful candidate must have a PhD or MD, and experience with neuroimaging, EEG and/or flow cytometry. Previous experience in RNAseq data analysis, R, and Matlab or Python software is a plus. The candidate should also have a strong publication record, as well as project management skills, critical and analytical thinking, and social and communication skills. Fluent spoken and written English is a requirement.
The position is filled for a fixed term of one year, with the possibility to renew it, starting from April 2021 or as agreed. The salary of the position is determined in accordance with the salary system of Finnish universities. The University of Helsinki offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care and health insurance, sports facilities, and opportunities for professional development. A trial period of 6 months will be applied.
For further information on the position, please contact: Academy Fellow Francesco M. Noè, francesco.noe@helsinki.fi
How to Apply: Please submit your application via the University of Helsinki Recruitment System by clicking the ‘Apply for the position button’ below. Internal applicants (i.e. current employees of the University of Helsinki) should submit their applications through the SAP HR portal. If you need support with the recruitment system, please contact recruitment@helsinki.fi.
Application should contain the following appendices:
• detailed CV (max. 3 pages) • motivation letter detailing research interest, experience, and career goals • academic merits and research activities (max 1 page) • three letters of recommendation (ideally including the applicant’s actual PhD supervisor)
Applications will be accepted until 30.05.2021 and revised until the position is filled.
The University of Helsinki is an equal opportunity employer. International applicants are encouraged.
HiLIFE -Neuroscience Center
The Neuroscience Center is an international research unit within Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE) of the University of Helsinki, a leading Nordic university with a strong commitment to life science research. The research focus of NC is on translational brain plasticity. We carry out research relevant for the human brain both in health and disease, and during development and aging, by applying versatile approaches and modern technology platforms. NC aims at making fundamental discoveries about brain functions and especially translate research findings into improvements in the treatment, prevention and diagnosis of psychiatric and neurological disorders. The research in NC spans across several scales from stem cell research and molecular neuroscience to systems and cognitive neuroscience in both animal and human models. The research groups of NC conduct research in neuroscience at the highest international level and actively apply the results for the benefit of the society. NC collaborates actively with other units of HiLIFE and faculties of the University of Helsinki, Helsinki University Central Hospital, and Neurocenter Finland.
Helsinki Institute of Life Science
Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE) is a new institute established in 2017 that supports high quality life science research across the University campuses and faculties. HiLIFE builds on existing strengths and new recruits and partnerships to create an attractive international environment for researchers to solve grand challenges in health, food, and environment. HiLIFE coordinates research infrastructures in life sciences and provides research-based interdisciplinary training.
University of Helsinki
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.
