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RESEARCH ASSOCIATE – DR. JOSE BRAS AND DR. RITA GUERREIRO

Van Andel Institute is a leading independent biomedical research and education facility 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.

We are looking for a highly motivated and collaborative RESEARCH ASSOCIATE to work on a project being developed by the laboratories of Drs. Rita Guerreiro and José Brás, in the Department of Neurodegenerative Science at the Van Andel Institute in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

The position is available for an ambitious scientist to use or establish genome-wide genomic analyses methods to identify novel genes and variants associated with Alzheimer's disease and dementia. The laboratories employ a multidisciplinary and collaborative approach to the study of familial and sporadic neurodegenerative diseases and has large collections of samples and genomic data for different neurological diseases. The successful candidate will use these data to identify causative mutations and variants associated with disease risk that may be new targets for the development of drugs for Alzheimer's disease and associated disorders.

In this role as a RESEARCH ASSOCIATE, you will provide exceptional scientific leadership in coordinating lab projects in genetics, bioinformatics, and neurodegeneration. You will play an integral role in PROJECT MANAGEMENT, EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN AND EXECUTION, MENTORING OF RESEARCH TRAINEES, and WRITING UP RESEARCH RESULTS for manuscripts and/or grant applications.

QUALIFICATIONS:

You will possess a Ph.D or M.S. (or equivalent degree) focusing on neurogenetics, genetics, genomics, bioinformatics, and/or computational biology. Have at least one publication in one of these fields would be desirable.   

DESCRIPTION OF A SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE:

• A self-driven and hard-working individual who has a strong curiosity about basic science and its clinical application
• A highly organized multi-tasker who pays attention to detail and values research integrity
• A collegial team member with the ability to interact effectively and cordially with colleagues and collaborators

EXPECTATIONS

• The following expectations should be met within the first 3 months.
• 1-3 months – Develop a solid understanding of lab projects and background, develop familiarity with lab techniques and approaches
• 3-6 months – Take leadership role in lab project coordination, experimental design and execution.

HOW TO APPLY

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! 

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

Please contact Natalie Rinaldi (natalie.rinaldi@vai.org) for further information or questions, or if you have any difficulty with the application process.

_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. _

AS VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE IS A DRUG AND ALCOHOL-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.

AT VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE, THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF OUR PEOPLE IS OUR NUMBER ONE PRIORITY. AS A CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT AT VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE, ALL EMPLOYEES ARE REQUIRED TO BE FULLY VACCINATED FOR COVID-19. “FULL VACCINATION” IS DEFINED AS TWO WEEKS AFTER BOTH DOSES OF A TWO-DOSE VACCINE OR TWO WEEKS SINCE A SINGLE-DOSE VACCINE HAS BEEN ADMINISTERED.

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ABOUT GRAND RAPIDS, MI

Van Andel Research Institute is located in downtown Grand Rapids, MI which 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 Rapidsoffers all the big-city excitement you would 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.

Required Skills Required Experience

• Have the ability to effectively meet and deal with the public;
• Possess and maintain a valid Florida driver’s license and acceptable driving record;
• ability to pass standard law enforcement background/security check; must be in good physical condition.