LAL, the Finnish Union of Experts in Science (formerly the Finnish Union of Chemists), was founded in 1945 and is affiliated to AKAVA, the Confederation of Unions for Academic Professionals in Finland. A large majority of Finnish graduates in the Union?s core subjects, chemistry and biochemistry, are registered as members of the Union. The proportion of graduates from other biological sciences who are registered with us is constantly growing.
The Union has over 7 000 members from different branches of science; chemists, biochemists, biologists and geneticists amongst others. If you have achieved an academic qualification in science or are a candidate for one, LAL is the natural choice of union for you.
We know the employers in the field
These days the working world is such a jungle that it is
worth it for everyone to belong to a union. As a founding member of
AKAVA we have extensive experience in protecting the rights of
scientists. We have a good knowledge of universities, research
institutes and other operators in the public sector, as well as of
the industrial and business world.
The world is changing, even for academics
In the last ten years, a crisis in the business world has
meant that even people in managerial posts have found their
positions on the job market less secure. Academic qualifications
are no longer sufficient to guarantee stable and consistent
careers. An increasing number of people find themselves facing job
changes and the need for retraining. Anyone could end up facing
temporary unemployment or deterioration in their terms of
employment, and not all employers manage to meet the
responsibilities required of them by law.
Around half of the Union?s members work in the private sector. Some 40 % are employed by the state and almost 10 % by municipalities. We have extensive knowledge of the job market for scientists and we protect our members? interests in all sectors.
Protection, information, action
Membership in LAL offers you a level of protection and
information you will not find elsewhere. By joining the Union you
will receive liability and legal assistance insurance,
income-related unemployment insurance, professional assistance in
problems with employers as well as legal services. In addition, the
Union?s magazine and members-only service web page gives you a lot
of useful information related to pay and employment.
In addition to these significant member benefits, you will have the opportunity to take part in activities, fun pastimes and useful training together with other scientists. Why not join a network you actually belong to already?
A great return on a small investment
The membership fee of the Finnish Union of Experts in Science
is tax deductible. In 2009 the fee for ordinary membership is
EUR 312 per annum.
To join LAL, complete and sign the Application form.pdf and return it to the Union?s office.
