Assistant Research Technician

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 is a leading independent biomedical research facility dedicated to determining the epigenetic, genetic, molecular and cellular origins of cancer, neurodegenerative disorders and other diseases, and translating those discoveries through global partnerships with academic, clinical, industry and philanthropic collaborators. The Institute is home to more than 400 scientists and support staff and has established one-of-a-kind operations and highly efficient core facilities.

The laboratory of Dr. Yang Yang is seeking to hire an Assistant Research Technician to be a key part of our research team. Dr. Yang’s lab focuses on investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying amyloid-related pathologies in neurodegenerative diseases and leading advancements in amyloid-based therapies. Our research endeavors seek to address the following questions: 1. What are the pathological implications of amyloid assembly and spreading mechanisms in neurodegenerative diseases? 2. How do amyloid aggregates form and disassemble, and what crucial factors contribute to a thorough understanding of disease progression? 3. How can we enhance our understanding and efficacy of amyloid-based therapies for neurodegenerative disorders? 

 QUALIFICATIONS

• A Bachelor’s degree (or above) in life sciences, focusing on neuroscience, cell biology and molecular biology, or related biomedical fields
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative and handle responsibility and tasks in a reliable, high-quality, and efficient manner
• 0-2 years of hands on biology-related experience at the lab bench
• Excellent organizational and communication (oral and written) skills
• A hardworking individual who is able to work independently and in a team environment
• Experience working with rodents would be desirable
• A motivated individual who shows strong interests in research and is able to work independently and in a team environment

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Performing laboratory experiments related to sample preparation.
• Working with rodent models (i.e. stereotactic surgery)
• Tissue culture experience (i.e. primary cultures, cell lines, transfection, viral transduction)
• Documenting experimental procedures and results
• Collaborating with other researchers.
• Maintaining laboratory equipment and assisting with some administrative tasks.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested candidates should submit a single PDF file containing the following items:  

A brief cover letter outlining your research experience and interests, and you might contribute to the Yang Lab. A recent Curriculum Vitae. A list of 2-3 individuals and their contact details who have agreed to act as references.

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.