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.
Van Andel Institute’s (VAI) Laboratory of Sara Nowinski, Ph.D. currently has a position available for a Postdoctoral Fellow to join her lab and carry out an independent project examining the biochemistry and metabolic regulation of the mitochondrial fatty acid synthesis (mtFAS) pathway. The lab is primarily interested in the molecular mechanisms that regulate mitochondrial function, with a focus on the mtFAS pathway. The postdoctoral researcher will extend our observations in mtFAS biology to map new enzymes in the pathway and metabolic dependencies using recently developed mass spectrometry methods.
The successful candidate will have the opportunity to be trained with both traditional and state-of-the-art technologies and will work in a highly interdisciplinary environment that allows close interaction with the growing research community at the Van Andel Institute (VAI). VAI is a leading independent non-profit biomedical life sciences research and education facility. The Institute is home to more than 200 scientists and support staff that work in on-site laboratories and in collaborative partnerships that span the globe. The department provides a stimulating multidisciplinary environment for state-of-the-art research to understand the intricate mechanics of metabolism and their implications for human health.
Necessary Qualifications
· A Ph.D. graduate with a strong background in cell & molecular biology, biochemistry or a related field in the basic sciences
· Experience with common laboratory techniques in biochemistry, molecular biology, and/or metabolism, including cell culture.
· Experience with LCMS mass spectrometry is required.
· Experience with mitochondrial techniques are a strong plus.
· Bioinformatics experience (e.g. analysis of NGS data) is a plus.
· Ability to coordinate and independently carry out a research project.
· A track record of first author publication(s).
· Demonstrated effective oral communication skills.
Description of a Successful Candidate
· A collaborative, hands-on researcher who proactively shares knowledge and expertise with lab members and has an interest in providing mentorship to junior lab members.
· A self-motivated individual who thinks critically to effectively design experiments and solve complex research problems.
· A strong ability to take initiative and work independently.
· Excellent written and oral communication skills.
This list will change as projects evolve and you should be open minded to learn new things.
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.