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. Russell Jones at the Van Andel Institute (VAI) is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to join his research team. The R. Jones lab aims to understand the molecular mechanisms by which diet influences anti-tumor functions of the immune system, with a focus on how nutrients reprogram immune cell function via epigenetic regulation.

This postdoctoral position is available immediately for a motivated PhD who has graduated within the past 2 years and meets the qualifications and description outlined below. This NIH-funded position focuses on deciphering how metabolic conditions in the tumor microenvironment, triggered by experimental diets (i.e., caloric restriction, intermittent fasting), influence anti-tumor T cell function.

Dr. Jones’ research focuses on immunometabolism and cancer metabolism, with the specific goal of understanding how metabolic pathways can be manipulated to enhance protective immunity to against cancer. The position offers an exciting opportunity to develop new methods (i.e., animal models and mass spectrometry-based metabolomics) to study metabolic and epigenetic programming of T cells and how this impacts their ability to fight tumors. The candidate will work with Dr. Jones and his research team to identify areas of interest and expertise that will facilitate the highest level of contribution to reach overall project objectives.

Why choose the R. Jones Lab?

As a postdoctoral fellow in the R. Jones lab, you will:

• Have the opportunity to develop expertise in metabolomics, epigenomics, and mouse models of cancer.
• Provide exceptional scientific leadership and help drive projects forward. This includes independent design and execution of experiments for lab projects.
• Mentor and train research trainees on experimental techniques and protocols.
• Collaborate with the VAI metabolomics core facility to develop metabolomics protocols.
• Prepare your work for publications (i.e., making figures and writing).
• Dr. Jones is part of the T32 program at VAI.  Eligible candidates interested in this program are encouraged to apply.

Qualifications

• A Ph.D. degree and 5 or more years of experience, focusing on immunology, biochemistry, molecular and cell biology, cancer biology, or a related field.

• A self-driven and hard-working individual who has a strong curiosity about basic science and its clinical application.
• A collegial team member with the ability to interact effectively and cordially with colleagues.
• An organized scientist who pays attention to detail and values research integrity.
• Experience with mammalian tissue culture and/or animal work.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Experience with manuscript writing and figure design

As the ideal candidate, you may also have:

• Experience in immunological techniques, including multi-parameter flow cytometry
• Hands on experience or motivation to gain experience with metabolic techniques, including mass spectrometry, metabolomics, and metabolic tracing/flux experiments
• Experience with bioinformatics and working knowledge of scripting languages (e.g. R) is considered an asset

While this project is currently funded, an integral part of postdoctoral training is the process of preparing a research proposal and writing a fellowship application. All VAI Postdoctoral Fellows are encouraged to apply for external funding as soon as it is practical and reasonable after hire. Receiving a fellowship award provides recognition for both the fellow and VAI.

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. This salary is determined based on Doctorate/MD receipt date according to a set stipend schedule, which begins at $57,200 and up to $61,360. Applicants with exceptional qualifications may be considered for other salary scales.

Along with the competitive salary, 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 has a dedicated Office of Postdoctoral Affairs, which provides a comprehensive professional development program.

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 online today:

• Curriculum Vitae/Resume
• Cover Letter outlining your research achievements and current and future goals.
• 3 references (name, relationship, contact email and phone number)

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.