Research Technician

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 Lab of Darren Moore in the Department of Neurodegenerative Science at Van Andel Institute is looking to hire a full-time Research Technician to be a key part of our research team. The research focus of our lab explores the molecular and cellular mechanisms of neurodegeneration in inherited forms of Parkinson’s disease. Work in the laboratory on various disease-linked proteins is conducted across multiple levels, including primary neuronal/astrocyte cultures, mammalian cell lines, human iPSC-derived models, human brain tissue, and rodent models. Qualifications Must possess a Bachelor of Science degree (or equivalent) in biological sciences, focusing on neuroscience, biochemistry, cell or molecular biology, or related biomedical fields Ideally 2-5 years of hands-on biology-related experience at the lab bench Candidates with 0-2 years of lab experience may be considered for an Assistant Research Technician role Good oral and written communication skills Excellent organizational skills A hardworking individual able to work independently and in a team environment Experience working with rodents would be desirable Experience of preparing rodent primary cultures would be an asset Experience working with standard molecular/cell biology techniques would be desirable Knowledge of molecular biology, cell biology and/or neuroscience would be an asset Responsibilities Working with rodent models (i.e. stereotactic surgery, behavioral analyses) Maintaining mouse colonies (i.e. genotyping, tissue collection, cohort maintenance) Tissue culture experience (i.e. primary cultures, cell lines, transfection, viral transduction) Histology, immunohistochemistry and neuropathology, stereological and confocal microscopy Molecular and cell biology (i.e. plasmid cloning, viral vector production, Western blotting) General lab maintenance How to Apply Interested candidates should submit a single PDF file including: 1. A brief cover letter outlining research experience and fit with the lab 2. Curriculum vitae 3. Contact details for 2-3 references Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. For questions, please contact Natalie Hartford at natalie.hartford@vai.org or Darren Moore at darren.moore@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.