Job Description

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 Melissa Hoyer, Ph.D. is looking for a highly motivated and collaborative post-doctoral fellow to join this lab to investigate the cell biology of neurons, including how specialized pathways remove damaged or superfluous organelles. By engineering neurons and glial cells with different quality control sensors and using fluorescence microscopy, cryo-electron microscopy, flow cytometry, proteomics, and other biochemical techniques, the Hoyer lab aims to better understand how to prevent neurodegenerative diseases at the molecular and cellular level.

The postdoctoral fellow position will be for a 1-year appointment with a possibility of renewal on a yearly basis.

Necessary Qualifications:

• A recent Ph.D. graduate with demonstrated experience in any of the following fields: cell biology, biochemistry and/or neuroscience. At least one publication in these fields would be desirable.
• A preferred candidate will have experience in any of the following research areas: neuronal culture-based assays; confocal and/or stereological microscopy; viral vector technology; or molecular/cellular neurobiology.

of a Successful Candidate:

• A self-motivated and driven individual who is able to exhibit exceptional research productivity and take responsibility for independent management of a project.
• A detail-oriented researcher who still keeps a clear grasp of the big picture.
• A team player who proactively shares knowledge and expertise with lab members.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

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.

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

• 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
• 401 K retirement savings plans with employee/employer contributions
• Paid vacation, holidays, personal days
• Relocation Assistance

Application Process:

If you possess these attributes and desire to help us drive science from the bench to the clinic; we would welcome speaking with you and encourage you to apply today by completing the following:

• Qualified applicants should provide a cover letter outlining research experience and interests, a curriculum vitae, and the names and contact details of three references, to Prof. Melissa Hoyer at melissa.hoyer@vai.org with the subject heading “postdoc”.
• Apply through VAI’s online application system

If you have questions about the application process or working at VAI you are welcome to email Natalie Hartford, Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist at natalie.hartford@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.