Postdoctoral Fellow

Van Andel Institute

2d • 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. The Van Andel Institute (VAI) is seeking to hire a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Burton Laboratory under the direction of Dr. Nick Burton. This role will present the opportunity to take on a leadership role in managing a research project understanding why people with the same pathological genetic variant sometimes present with only mild disease while others present with severe and sometimes fatal multi-system disease – a phenomena observed over a wide variety of genetic disorders, particularly metabolic and neurodegenerative disorders. In the Burton lab, we propose that many cases of individuals developing only mild pathologies are due to either protective genetic variants elsewhere in their genome (genetic suppression) or due to protective molecules found in an animal’s diet or microbiome (environmental suppression). If true, we hypothesize that identifying these molecular mechanisms will lead to new treatments for a wide variety of currently untreatable pathologies. To study these phenomena we take advantage of the well-established model animal C. elegans to generate animal models of human genetic diseases by recreating patient variants in conserved residues using CRISPR. We then perform both high throughput genetic suppressor and diet/microbiome suppressor screens to identify new therapeutic approaches for a wide variety of pathologies. We are especially interested in candidates with experience in either bacterial genetics or C. elegans biology (particularly mapping suppressor mutations from genetic screens), however, we can train on all aspects of this project and encourage all interested applicants to apply. Interested candidates can also reach out to Dr. Burton ([email protected]) directly to learn more about the project and opportunities.

Requirements

• A Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. in biology, molecular and cell biology, biochemistry, or a related field.
• A record of peer-reviewed publications is highly desirable.

Nice To Haves

• Bacterial genetics or C. elegans experience is preferred, but not required.

Responsibilities

• Leadership opportunity managing a research project on how bacteria regulate animal (elegans) physiology.
• Training available in bacterial genetics and/or C. elegans genetics.
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology with short wait times.
• Opportunity to work with highly collaborative scientists in the VAI Department of Metabolism and Nutritional Programming, and throughout the Institute.

Benefits

• 401 K retirement savings plans with employee/employer contributions
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Employer-sponsored life and AD&D insurance
• Additional voluntary life and AD&D insurance for employees and dependents
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance
• Flexible-spending accounts for health and child/elder care
• Paid vacation, holidays, personal days
• Relocation Assistance

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree