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Van Andel Institute (VAI), a leading independent biomedical research facility, is dedicated to determining the epigenetic, genetic, molecular and cellular origins of cancer, Parkinson’s and other diseases, and translating those findings into effective therapies. The Institute is home to more than 400 scientists and support staff that work in on-site laboratories and in collaborative partnerships that span the globe.

HONG-YUAN CHU, PH.D., is the head of Neural Circuitry and Neurodegeneration laboratory at VAI, and the lab aims to understand molecular, cellular, and circuit mechanisms related to Parkinson’s disease (PD) pathogenesis and pathophysiology using novel mouse models of PD (https://vari.vai.org/research-groups/).

Dr. Chu is seeking to add a talented RESEARCH TECHNICIAN to start IMMEDIATELY.

IN THIS ROLE, YOU WOULD BE TASKED TO:

Order and receive laboratory supplies and reagents.

Prepare solutions and reagents for physiology and histology experiments.

Perform rodent stereotaxic surgery and/or histology analysis of brain tissues.

Perform brain slice patch clamp recording.

• Training will be provided.  The expectation is this skill will be learned within the first 3 months.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor or Master of Science degree in Physiology, Neuroscience, or related science.
• Experience working with mice is highly preferred.
• Ability to record and manage data files on a day-to-day basis.
• Ability to establish priorities and manage multiple activities/tasks with input from PI.

This list will change as projects evolve and you should be open-minded to learn new things.

YOU SHOULD POSSESS THE FOLLOWING TRAITS AND CHARACTERISTICS:

• Motivated and hardworking individual that possesses strong planning and organizational skills.
• Intrinsic motivation to acquire new skills and expertise.
• Bring innovation/creative thinking about science.  
• A strong commitment to building and maintaining a positive work environment. 
• Strong attention to to detail and ability to follow specific instructions.

In addition, superior verbal and written communication and routine computer skills (PC/Mac) are necessary. Participation in lab meetings and presentation of data will be mandatory. At this position, you will work on exciting scientific projects in a highly interdisciplinary and vibrant environment, and will have the opportunity to be trained in cutting edge technologies for neuroscience research, e.g. optogenetics, chemogenetics, electrophysiology and behavioral assays.

If you possess these attributes and enjoy working with motivated and driven people, we would welcome speaking with you and encourage you to APPLY TODAY! HTTP://BIT.LY/2QNMTR2

• A cover letter describing your research interests, experience, and how you might contribute to the Chu Lab’s research.
• An up-to-date Curriculum Vitae.
• A list of 2-3 individuals who have agreed to act as references along with their contact details.

This position will be open until filled and will be reviewing applications on an ongoing basis. If you have any difficulty uploading your application or any questions, please email Megan Doerr at megan.doerr@vai.org.

VARI IS COMMITTED TO ACHIEVING EXCELLENCE THROUGH INCREASING DIVERSITY. WE ACTIVELY ENCOURAGE APPLICATIONS FROM WOMEN, PERSONS OF COLOR, PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES, AND OTHER UNDERREPRESENTED GROUPS.

 VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE IS AN EEO AND AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER

ABOUT GRAND RAPIDS, MI

Van Andel Research 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, theatres, 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

REQUIREMENTS & QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with lean manufacturing principles and or Six Sigma (Minimum Green Belt Six Sigma Certified, Black Belt Preferred)
• Experience operating Romer, Faro, or other types of CMM’s for machined parts
• Ability to generate FAI reports for machined parts and assemblies
• Certified Quality Inspector preferred
• Understanding of ISO 9000, AS 9100, AS9120, AS9101, etc. implementation
• Proficiency using Microsoft Suite (Excel, Word, and PowerPoint)
• Excellent communicator both verbally and written
• Highly detail-oriented