Postdoctoral Fellow - Laboratory of Yang Yang

Van Andel Institute

1d • Onsite

About The Position

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. 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!

Requirements

• 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.
• 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

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees