Postdoctoral Fellow - Grainger Laboratory - Wnt Signaling in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Development and Cancer

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 Grainger Lab is seeking a full-time Postdoctoral Fellow to be a key part of our research team. We are interested in how Wnt signaling and metabolism impact on hematopoietic stem cell development, and cancer. Please see our recent publications. Work in the laboratory is conducted across multiple levels, including in vitro assays, mammalian cell lines, and zebrafish models. 

In this position, you will:

• Work independently and as part of a team to design, conduct and analyze experimental data from established and new protocols and techniques.
• Author peer-reviewed journal articles and contribute to grant proposals.
• Perform original, high-caliber scientific research.
• Perform other laboratory duties as requested.

Successful candidates for this position will have the following qualifications:

• Hold a recently awarded PhD or MD degree, or be nearing completion, and demonstrate a strong publication record, rigorous experimental skills, and relevant research experience in areas including biochemistry, cell biology, developmental biology, molecular biology, metabolism, stem cell biology, neuroscience, cancer biology, and/or animal models.
• Ability to adapt quickly and handle multiple tasks.
• Excellent problem-solving skills. 
• Experience with designing, performing, recording, and communicating scientific research with minimal supervision.
• Ability to independently prioritize to effectively execute tasks.

How to Apply:

If you possess these attributes and enjoy working with motivated and driven people, we would welcome speaking with you and encourage you to apply today! 

• An up-to-date Curriculum Vitae.
• A cover letter explaining your (1) previous experience and skills related to the position, (2) why you are interested in our lab, and (3) your current career ambitions after postdoctoral training.
• A list of 2-3 individuals who have agreed to act as references along with their contact details.

The start date is flexible based on the candidate's graduation. 

Please contact Megan Doerr (Megan.Doerr@vai.org) for further information or questions, or if you have any difficulty with the application process.

Why join Van Andel Institute as a Postdoctoral Fellow?

Postdoctoral fellows are a crucial part of Van Andel Institute’s efforts to improve the health and enhance the lives of current and future generations.

Postdoctoral Fellows are full-time employees and receive a competitive annual salary. This salary is determined based on Doctorate/MD receipt date according to a set stipend schedule, which begins at $71,000 and up to $75,000. Applicants with exceptional qualifications may be considered for other salary scales.

Along with the competitive salary, our Postdoctoral Fellows are eligible for VAI benefits, including:

• 401 K retirement savings plans with employee/employer contributions
• Medical, dental and vision coverage
• Employer-sponsored life and AD&D insurance
• Additional voluntary life and AD&D insurance for employees and dependents
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance
• Flexible-spending accounts for health and child/elder care
• Paid vacation, holidays, personal days
• Relocation Assistance

VAI recognizes that selecting where to complete a postdoctoral fellowship is a significant decision for postdoctoral fellows. VAI has a dedicated Office of Postdoctoral Affairs, which provides a comprehensive professional development program.

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.