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 Van Andel Institute has an opening for a full-time, on-site Supply Chain Coordinator reporting to the Director of Supply Chain and Special Projects. This position will be part of our Materials Management team, a group that plays a vital role in supporting the Institute’s research and operations. The team ensures that researchers and staff have the necessary materials, supplies, and support to advance discoveries that improve human health and enhance lives.

In this role, you will provide comprehensive operational and administrative support to the Materials Management team, ensuring efficient coordination across Procurement, Logistics, Inventory, and Glassware & Media functions. It is an ideal opportunity for someone who enjoys variety, adapts easily to changing priorities, and finds satisfaction in both hands-on work and project-based responsibilities.

We are seeking a self-starter with strong initiative who can work independently once trained, collaborate effectively across teams, and represent the department professionally in meetings with staff at all levels. This position also offers an excellent opportunity to develop a comprehensive understanding of supply chain operations within a dynamic research environment.

This job might be for you if you:

Provide operational and administrative support across Procurement, Logistics, Inventory, and Glassware & Media functions.
Coordinate orders, shipments, and stock levels to ensure smooth and efficient workflows.
Maintain accurate records of suppliers, contracts, and deliveries.
Collaborate with internal teams and vendors to anticipate needs and resolve issues.
Assist with projects focused on process improvement, systems, and workflow optimization.

Qualified candidates will possess:

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree (preferred) in Business, Supply Chain, or Project Management.
Experience supporting operational functions and projects, ideally in supply chain or research environments.
Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to prioritize multiple tasks.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Comfort with providing hands-on support, problem-solving, and cross-departmental collaboration.
Proficiency with project tracking tools, spreadsheets, and office software.
Professionalism and the ability to work independently and effectively with staff at all levels.

Compensation and Benefits

All full-time employees of Van Andel Institute are eligible for benefits, effective Day One. Rate of pay will be commensurate with experience, skills, and qualifications.

How to Apply

If you possess these attributes and enjoy working with motivated and driven people across a small institute, we encourage you to apply today.

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

Cover letter outlining your supply chain experience, future career goals, and why you are interested in this position and the Van Andel Institute
Current resumé
Names and contact information of three professional references

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

Note: To ensure your application is official and eligible for review, please submit it through our online system. Emailed applications are not considered official.

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.