Core Technician - Mass Spectrometry Core

Van Andel Institute

7d•Onsite

About The Position

Van Andel Institute is seeking a full-time Core Technician for its Mass Spectrometry Core in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This is a one-year funded position supporting biomedical discovery through metabolomics and proteomics services using LC/MS and GC/MS platforms. The technician will work with experienced scientists in a collaborative environment, receive training, and develop specialized research technician skills. The possibility of extending the position beyond one year depends on performance and funding availability. The role includes preparing samples, assisting with metabolomics, lipidomics, and proteomics experiments, maintaining cell cultures, following established protocols and quality procedures, and assisting with core facility tasks. The technician will gain exposure to LC/MS/MS mobile-phase preparation, GCMS maintenance, and the data-analysis software and protocols used by the core. Growth opportunities include contributing to LC/MS methodology development and publishable research, as well as gaining hands-on experience with laboratory techniques.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, or a related discipline.
Strong work ethic, attention to detail, and note-taking skills.
Excellent interpersonal skills.
Demonstrable written and oral communication skills.
Ability to work independently and as an active member of an integrated team.
Integrity and accountability.

Responsibilities

Prepare samples for experiments, including tissue handling, pipetting, and sample labeling.
Work with lab staff in all phases of metabolomics, lipidomics, and proteomics experiments.
Facilitate and maintain cell cultures.
Follow established protocols and procedures, including quality control and quality assurance protocols.
Gain exposure to LC/MS/MS mobile-phase preparation and GCMS maintenance.
Assist with general core facility tasks.
Maintain detailed records and adhere to protocols.
Learn and use data-analysis software and protocols used by the core.
Help maintain a clean, safe, and well-organized laboratory.
Share responsibilities equitably and communicate proactively about schedules, workloads, and instrument status.
Document changes and adhere to SOPs to support rigor and reproducibility.