Postdoctoral Fellow - Laboratory of Yang Yang

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.

A postdoctoral position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Yang Yang in the Department of Structural Biology at the Van Andel Institute (VAI). Dr. Yang’s lab focuses on investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying amyloid-related pathologies in neurodegenerative diseases and leading advancements in amyloid-based therapies.

The postdoctoral researcher will explore the two projects:

• Understanding the assembly and clearance mechanisms of amyloid aggregates with key factors with cryo-ET, including amyloid assembly and spreading mechanisms.

• Investigating amyloid-based therapies in neurodegenerative diseases, specifically diagnosis and therapy with PET ligands and antibodies.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to be trained with both traditional and state-of-the-art technologies and will work in a highly interdisciplinary environment that allows close interaction with the growing research community at the Van Andel Institute (VAI). VAI is a leading independent non-profit biomedical life sciences research and education facility.  The Institute is home to more than 200 scientists and support staff who work in on-site laboratories and in collaborative partnerships that span the globe. The department provides a stimulating multidisciplinary environment for state-of-the-art research to understand the intricate mechanics of cell biology and their implications for human health.

Qualifications:

• A Ph.D. graduate in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, or any closely related field.

• Experience in Structural Biology, especially in cryo-EM and cryo-ET is preferred.

Description of a Successful Candidate:

• Collaborative, team player who proactively shares knowledge and expertise with junior members of the lab

• Ability to independently design and carry out complex research projects

• Excitement to pursue interesting new research directions and willingness to take scientific risks

• Excellent verbal and written scientific communication skills

VAI provides postdoctoral training opportunities to scientists beginning their research careers (https://vari.vai.org/postdoctoral/). The fellowships are to help promising scientists advance their knowledge and research experience while supporting VAI's research endeavors under the mentorship of a VAI Faculty member. 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!

HOW TO APPLY

If you possess these attributes and enjoy working with motivated and committed people, we would welcome speaking with you and encourage you to apply today.

We ask you to submit:

• A cover letter describing your research interests, experience, and how you might contribute to Yang Lab 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.

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.