Postdoctoral Fellow

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. Van Andel Institute’s (VAI) Laboratory of Sara Nowinski, Ph.D. currently has a position available for a Postdoctoral Fellow to join her lab and carry out an independent project examining the biochemistry and metabolic regulation of the mitochondrial fatty acid synthesis (mtFAS) pathway. The lab is primarily interested in the molecular mechanisms that regulate mitochondrial function, with a focus on the mtFAS pathway. The postdoctoral researcher will extend our observations in mtFAS biology to map new enzymes in the pathway and metabolic dependencies using recently developed mass spectrometry methods. 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 that 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 metabolism and their implications for human health.

Requirements

• Ph.D. graduate with a strong background in cell & molecular biology, biochemistry or a related field in the basic sciences
• Experience with common laboratory techniques in biochemistry, molecular biology, and/or metabolism, including cell culture.
• Experience with LCMS mass spectrometry is required.
• Ability to coordinate and independently carry out a research project.
• A track record of first author publication(s).
• Demonstrated effective oral communication skills.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with mitochondrial techniques are a strong plus.
• Bioinformatics experience (e.g. analysis of NGS data) is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Carry out an independent project examining the biochemistry and metabolic regulation of the mitochondrial fatty acid synthesis (mtFAS) pathway.
• Extend observations in mtFAS biology to map new enzymes in the pathway and metabolic dependencies using recently developed mass spectrometry methods.
• Coordinate and independently carry out a research project.
• Proactively share knowledge and expertise with lab members.
• Provide mentorship to junior lab members.

Benefits

• Benefits are an important part of everyone’s well-being, as well as supporting diverse and changing lives outside of work.

What This Job Offers

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