Research Technician - R. Jones Laboratory

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 Laboratory of Russell Jones, Ph.D. is currently seeking to hire a Research Technician to work partly under the mentorship and guidance of Postdoctoral Fellow, Michael Dahabieh, Ph.D. Dr. Russell Jones is a leading expert in the study of cancer metabolism and immunology. As Professor and Chair of Metabolism and Nutritional Programming at VAI, his work seeks to uncover how T cells fuel themselves through metabolism, with the ultimate goal of developing new therapeutics that modulate T cell function to improve disease outcomes. Dr. Dahabieh’s current research focuses on defining how dysfunctional T cells process--or fail to process--fuels in disease settings. These characterizations will ultimately lead to dietary or genetic interventions that revitalize T cell function in diseases such as cancer.

Responsibilities:

Main responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

· Contribute to the planning and execution of research experiments with input from lab members

· Maintain detailed, accurate, and timely records of experimental procedures and results

· Consistently handle routine problems in execution of experiments on an independent basis, and seek input from Investigator and/or designee for more complex problems

· Demonstrate proficiency in scientific methods and standard laboratory techniques

· Participate in discussion of experimental procedures and results in formats established by the Investigator’s laboratory

· Prepare solutions, reagents, media, or stains necessary for experimental procedures.

· Assist with animal experiments according to Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) guidelines, including mouse models of infection or cancer

· Perform other laboratory duties as requested

Qualifications:

· Bachelor’s degree or equivalent with 1-2 years of research experience in molecular biology, cell biology, or a related discipline

· Strong work ethic and excellent interpersonal skills

· Prior experience working with mouse models of disease is an asset

· Experience with PCR and molecular biology is an asset

· Time management skills and competence in multi-tasking

· Demonstrated ability to work both independently and as an active member of an integrated team

· Excellent written and oral communication skills

· Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint

HOW TO APPLY

Interested candidates should submit a single PDF file containing the following items:

1. A brief cover letter outlining your research experience and interests, and how you might contribute to the R. Jones Lab.

2. A recent Curriculum Vitae.

3. A list of 2-3 individuals and their contact details who have agreed to act as referenc

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 achieving excellence through increasing diversity. We actively encourage applications from women, persons of color, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups.

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.

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