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.

The laboratory of Dr. Huilin Li at Van Andel Institute (VAI) is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Fellow. The Li lab uses biochemical, biophysical, and structural approaches to investigate the molecular mechanisms of DNA replication and repair, protein trafficking, and protein glycosylation.

Why join the Li Lab?

• Develop expertise in cutting-edge cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET).
• Gain broadly applicable skills that support careers in academia, biotechnology, the pharmaceutical industry, or structural biology facility management.
• Work in a collaborative and supportive team environment.
• Receive an individualized training and professional development plan tailored to your career goals.
• Pursue collaborative research and present your work at scientific conferences.
• Benefit from an outstanding institutional research environment and state-of-the-art cryo-EM resources.

In addition, the Li Lab participates in VAI’s Cancer Epigenetics Training Program, supported by an NIH T32 training grant. Eligible candidates interested in this program are also encouraged to apply.

Qualifications

• A Ph.D. in biochemistry, biophysics, structural biology, molecular biology, or a related discipline.
• A strong record of research productivity and scientific accomplishment.
• Ability to take ownership of a research project and advance it independently.
• Critical thinking, attention to detail, and the ability to design rigorous experiments and solve complex research problems.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Initiative, independence, and a commitment to collaborative research.

Why Join Van Andel Institute as a Postdoctoral Fellow?

Postdoctoral fellows are valued members of Van Andel Institute’s mission to improve the health and enhance the lives of current and future generations. As full-time employees, fellows receive a competitive annual salary starting at $71,000.

Postdoctoral Fellows are also eligible for comprehensive VAI benefits, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Employer-sponsored life and accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance
• Optional additional voluntary life and AD&D insurance for employees and dependents
• Short- and long-term disability insurance
• Flexible-spending accounts for health and dependent care
• A 401(K) retirement savings plan with employee and employer contributions
• Paid vacation, holidays, personal days
• Relocation assistance

VAI recognizes that choosing where to pursue postdoctoral training is an important professional and personal decision. Its dedicated Office of Postdoctoral Affairs supports fellows through a comprehensive professional development program.

How to Apply

We welcome applications from motivated scientists who share our commitment to rigorous, collaborative research.

Please submit an online application containing a single combined PDF with the following materials:

• A cover letter describing your research interests and experience and how you would contribute to the Li Lab.
• An up-to-date curriculum vitae.
• The names and contact information of two or three professional references who have agreed to be contacted.

For additional information, questions, or assistance with application process, please contact Natalie Hartford at natalie.hartford@vai.org.

ABOUT VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE

Van Andel Institute (VAI) is committed to improving the health and enhancing the lives of current and future generations through cutting-edge biomedical research and innovative educational offerings. Established in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1996 by the Van Andel family, VAI is now home to more than 650 scientists, educators and support staff, who work with a growing number of 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. Learn more at vai.org.

Van Andel Institute is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) Employer. We are committed to cultivating a workplace in which different perspectives and experiences are welcomed and respected. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, ancestry, national origin, sex, age, disability (physical or mental), marital or veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, political ideology, or membership in any other legally protected class. We are an Equal Opportunity 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.