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A postdoctoral position is available immediately in Dr. Hong Wen’s laboratory in the Center for Epigenetics at Van Andel Institute.

The Wen lab is interested in understanding epigenetic regulation of chromatin and transcription during normal and cancer development. The long-term goal of the lab is to understand the molecular mechanisms by which histone modifications regulate chromatin and transcription, and how dysregulation of histone modification homeostasis leads to human cancer.  Following early discoveries on seveal epigenetic readers (Wen and Li et al, NATURE, 2014, Li and Wen et al, CELL, 2014; Wan and Wen et al, NATURE, 2017; Wan et al, NATURE, 2020), the current focus of the lab is to use cutting-edge technologies including CRISPR-Cas9 mouse models to elucidate the function of histone methylation and acetylation in the regulation of transcription elongation.

The candidate postdoc will have opportunity to work on functional characterization of epigenetic regulators using CRISPR mouse models, and discovery and characterization of novel epigenetic regulators in transcription elongation.

Specifically, we are interested in candidates with a background in epigenetics, mouse development and genetics.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• A Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. in biochemistry, molecular and cell biology or genetics research fields.
• Knowledge and experience with epigenetics, mouse development and genetics models are preferred.
• A track record of high-impact peer-reviewed publications is highly desirable.

DESCRIPTION OF A SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE:

• A self-motivated and driven individual who is able to exhibit exceptional research productivity and take responsibility for independent management of the project.
• A detail-oriented researcher that thinks critically to effectively design experiments and solve complex research problems.
• A strong ability to take initiative and work independently, as well as in a team environment.
• A collaborative, hands-on researcher who proactively shares knowledge and expertise with lab members.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Van Andel Institute (VAI) provides postdoctoral training opportunities to scientists beginning their research careers. The fellowships are to help promising scientists advance their knowledge and research experience and at the same time support the research endeavors of VAI under the mentorship of a VAI Faculty member.

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!

APPLICATION PROCESS:

Qualified applicants should provide a cover letter outlining research experience and interests, a curriculum vitae, and the names and address of three references to hong.wen@vai.org. 

If you possess these attributes and desire to help us drive science from the bench to the clinic; while benefiting from a highly generous compensation package; we would welcome speaking with you and encourage you to apply today.

VAI IS ACTIVELY STRIVING TO DIVERSIFY ITS WORKFORCE AND STRONGLY ENCOURAGES QUALIFIED INDIVIDUALS FROM UNDERREPRESENTED GROUPS TO APPLY. VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE IS AN EEO AND AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER.

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This position will be open until filled. If you have any difficulty uploading your application or any questions, please email Eric Miller at eric.miller@vai.org.

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ABOUT GRAND RAPIDS, MI

Van Andel Institute is located in downtown Grand Rapids, MIwhich is the second largest city in Michigan and the largest city in West Michigan. Grand Rapids offers a remarkable combination of cosmopolitan atmosphere and small town warmth, known for its philanthropic and sustainability-driven community, and is ranked one of "America's Top 100 Places to Live."

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 walk-able neighborhoods. 

With a medical and life sciences industry boom, strong entrepreneurial activity, dedication to green building and living, and innovative employers, Grand Rapids' diverse economy continues to grow, offering endless career opportunities.

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Required Skills Required Experience