Core Bioinformatics Scientist I

Van Andel Institute (VAI), a world-class biomedical research institute, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is dedicated to improving human health. We are pioneers in the fight against cancer, Parkinson's, and other diseases. We are committed to inspiring the next generation of scientists and educators.

The Bioinformatics and Biostatistics Core provides computational and statistical support to the growing number of researchers dedicated to studying cancer, neurodegenerative disease, epigenetics, and metabolomics at VAI. Bioinformatics Research Scientists assist VAI faculty and staff in the collection, management, analysis, visualization and interpretation of biological data; experimental design consulting; data processing and quality analysis; data integration, and evaluation of analytical tools and technology.

We prioritize bioinformaticians with a willingness and ability to independently learn a broad spectrum of methodologies.  The following list of typical daily duties and responsibilities represents the diversity and breadth of this position.

• Communicate complex computational, statistical and biological ideas clearly and effectively.
• Search, retrieve and analyze data from diverse public and private databases.
• Use R, RStudio, Bioconductor, Python and Snakemake workflows to analyze data using established and novel methods developed by internal and external groups.
• Use a Linux High-Performance Compute Cluster (HPCC).
• Create and manage scripts in Python, R, Perl, Bash.
• Evaluate and implement machine learning and AI tools when appropriate and advantageous.

The Van Andel Institute Bioinformatics and Biostatistics Core is an energetic, innovative and diverse group of scientists passionate about rigorous, robust and reproducible data analysis. 

This job might be right for a person who:

• Establishes and maintains relationships with a wide variety of researchers.
• Manages multiple projects with multiple clients and multiple timelines.
• Is interested in joining a team of professionals dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge and providing top quality customer service.
• Accepts difficult challenges and enjoys finding the best solution, whether it be tried-and-true or cutting edge.
• Enjoys collaborating and working as a team. You respect the skills each team member brings to the table while still being able to provide constructive criticism.

To qualify for this position, you need to have at least:

• Ph.D. in biology, bioinformatics, computational or systems biology, physical or computer science with a focus on bioinformatics or similar breadth of training with Master of Science preferred.
• Professional experience (4+ years) working in Linux HPCC with bioinformatics applications
• Experience (4+ years) with R and python is required. Perl experience will be considered.
• Experience managing codebases with git and deploying repos on github.
• Working knowledge of public biological databases (NCBI, ENCODE, ENSEMBL, TCGA, UCSC, etc.)
• Experience managing and analyzing large, multidimensional datasets
• Familiarity with principles of experimental design and modern data analysis paradigms
• Strong interpersonal skills and experience interacting with people of diverse cultural and educational backgrounds
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.

Additional helpful experience includes:

• Experience developing computational workflows with Snakemake
• Demonstrated contributions to extracurricular research and publications.
• Demonstrated experience analyzing single-cell data, spatial data, metabolomics data or proteomics data

How to Apply: 

If you possess the desired qualification and attributes, we welcome speaking with you and strongly encourage you to click the apply button today!

In your application, provide the following in a single combined pdf document:

• cover letter highlighting key qualifications,
• resume,
• names and contact information of 3 references.

This position will be open until filled and will be reviewing applications on an ongoing basis. If you have any difficulty uploading your application or any questions, please email Megan Doerr at Megan.Doerr@vai.org. 

About Van Andel Institute

Established in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1996 by the Van Andel family, VAI is now home to nearly 500 scientists, educators and support staff, who work with national and international collaborators to foster discovery. The Institute’s scientists study the origins of cancer, Parkinson’s and other diseases and translate their findings into breakthrough prevention and treatment strategies. Our educators develop inquiry-based approaches for K–12 education to help students and teachers prepare the next generation of problem-solvers, while our Graduate School offers a rigorous, research-intensive Ph.D. program in molecular and cellular biology.

VAI is committed to excellence through broad participation and diverse perspectives. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences who share our passion for innovation and collaboration.

Van Andel Institute is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) Employer.   

As Van Andel Institute is a drug free employer, all prospective new employees undergo a urinalysis/drug test as part of our pre-employment process.  This is a 7-panel drug screen and it includes testing for Marijuana, Cocaine, Amphetamines, Opiates, PCP, Barbiturates, and Benzodiazepines. 

About Grand Rapids, MI  

Van Andel Institute is in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan in the center of the Medical Mile.  A remarkable combination of a cosmopolitan atmosphere and small-town warmth, Grand Rapids is known for its philanthropic and sustainability-driven community. It’s fun affordable and family-friendly.  

Located on the banks of the Grand River, Grand Rapids offers all the big-city excitement you'd expect from a million-resident metropolis, featuring hundreds of restaurants and nightspots, theaters, museums, sports and concerts. The safe and clean downtown is surrounded by an eclectic mix of walkable neighborhoods and natural areas. The downtown area is safe and clean with an eclectic mix of walkable neighborhoods and natural areas.