Postdoctoral Fellow at Van Andel Institute in Grand Rapids, MI

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 (VAI) is seeking to hire a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Burton Laboratory under the direction of Dr. Nick Burton.  This role will present the opportunity to take on a leadership role in managing a research project understanding why people with the same pathological genetic variant sometimes present with only mild disease while others present with severe and sometimes fatal multi-system disease – a phenomena observed over a wide variety of genetic disorders, particularly metabolic and neurodegenerative disorders. In the Burton lab, we propose that many cases of individuals developing only mild pathologies are due to either protective genetic variants elsewhere in their genome (genetic suppression) or due to protective molecules found in an animal’s diet or microbiome (environmental suppression). If true, we hypothesize that identifying these molecular mechanisms will lead to new treatments for a wide variety of currently untreatable pathologies. To study these phenomena we take advantage of the well-established model animal C. elegans to generate animal models of human genetic diseases by recreating patient variants in conserved residues using CRISPR. We then perform both high throughput genetic suppressor and diet/microbiome suppressor screens to identify new therapeutic approaches for a wide variety of pathologies.

We are especially interested in candidates with experience in either bacterial genetics or C. elegans biology (particularly mapping suppressor mutations from genetic screens), however, we can train on all aspects of this project and encourage all interested applicants to apply. Interested candidates can also reach out to Dr. Burton (Nick.Burton@vai.org) directly to learn more about the project and opportunities.

What this role will involve:

• Leadership opportunity managing a research project on how bacteria regulate animal (elegans) physiology.

• Training available in bacterial genetics and/or C. elegans genetics.

• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology with short wait times.

• Opportunity to work with highly collaborative scientists in the VAI Department of Metabolism and Nutritional Programming, and throughout the Institute.

Qualifications:

• A Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. in biology, molecular and cell biology, biochemistry, or a related field.

• Bacterial genetics or C. elegans experience is preferred, but not required.

• A record of peer-reviewed publications is highly desirable.

Why Join Van Andel Institute as a Postdoctoral Fellow?

Postdoctoral Fellows are full-time employees and receive a competitive annual salary beginning at $70,000. Learn more about VAI's dedication to investing in postdoctoral trainees and the recently announced salary increase here. 

Strong internal grants to support the career development of postdoctoral scholars.

Along with the competitive salary and extensive professional development opportunities and support, our Postdoctoral Fellows are eligible for VAI Benefits, including:

• 401 K retirement savings plans with employee/employer contributions

• 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

• Paid vacation, holidays, personal days

• Relocation Assistance

VAI recognizes that selecting where to complete a postdoctoral fellowship is a significant decision for postdoctoral fellows. VAI's dedicated Office of Postdoctoral Affairs provides a comprehensive professional development program.

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.