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.

Postdoctoral Fellow - Genetics, Epigenetics, Neuroimmune Interactions and Therapeutic Innovation

in Neurodegenerative Diseases

A Postdoctoral Fellow research position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Qiang Zhu (https://zhulab.vai.org/) at Van Andel Institute (VAI). The research group combines multidisciplinary technologies to study disease mechanisms and develop innovative therapeutic approaches for dementia and motor neuron diseases. 

Why join the Zhu Lab?

• Leadership level role in independent and collaborative projects such as studying disease mechanisms and developing new treatments for ALS and dementia. Strong support and assistance from lab members in the laboratory and core facilities (https://www.vai.org/research/core-services/ ).

• Research emphasis on cell-type specific toxicities, neuron-glia interactions, genetics and epigenetics will provide insights in identifying novel biomarkers and drug targets.

• Expand and improve skills: disease models based on genome-modified animals and human iPSCs and 3D-organoids, epigenetic modification, behavioral neuroscience and neuronal electrophysiology.

• The Zhu lab is within the Department of Neurodegenerative Science and affiliated with the Department of Epigenetics at VAI, which includes highly collaborative scientists revealing groundbreaking new insights into neurodegenerative diseases, epigenetics and structural biology.

• Work on well-funded projects and have access to excellent mentorship and support from the laboratory, departments, and VAI postdoctoral office.

Qualifications:

• A Ph.D. or equivalent degree in neuroscience, pharmacology, or molecular and cell biology with interest in neurodegenerative diseases.

• Previous research experience with microglia, neuroinflammation, epigenetics, gene therapy, CRISPR gene editing/screen, iPSCs or animal models are preferred.

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

Why join the Van Andel Institute as a Postdoctoral Fellow?

Postdoctoral Fellows are full-time employees and receive a competitive annual salary beginning at $70,000 and benefits including 401 K retirement savings plans.

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

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

• 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 are interested in this position, please submit the following through Workday;

• Curriculum Vitae

• 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 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.