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.

Postdoctoral Fellow – Wen laboratory (Epigenetics in cancer)

The Laboratory of Dr. Hong Wen, Ph.D. at Van Andel Institute (VAI) is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Postdoctoral Fellow to join our dynamic team. The Wen Lab employs multidisciplinary approaches to investigate epigenetic pathways in cancer, with the goal of developing innovative epigenetic therapies for cancer treatment. Applicants with experience in mouse models, epigenetics, or strong biological backgrounds with a keen interest in cancer epigenetics are especially encouraged to apply.

Why choose the Wen Lab?

• Leadership in Cutting-edge Research: Take on leadership roles in both independent and collaborative projects focusing on uncovering disease mechanisms driven by epigenetic mutations and developing new therapeutic strategies, particularly for acute leukemia.
• Skill Development: Gain hands-on experience with a range of advanced techniques, including genetically engineered mouse models, CRISPR gene editing and screening, single-cell and spatial transcriptomics, epigenomic profiling, and high-throughput drug screening. Strong support is provided by lab members and institutional core facilities (https://www.vai.org/research/core-services/ ).
• Strong Publication Record: Our recent studies have been published in top-tier journals such as Nature, Nature Communications, and Science Advances.
• Collaborative and Supportive Environment: The Wen lab is within the Department of Epigenetics, which features a collaborative group of internationally recognized scientists exploring the mechanisms of epigenetic regulation in human diseases. Postdoctoral fellows benefit from outstanding mentorship and career development resources provided by the lab, the departments, and the VAI postdoctoral office.

Qualifications:

• A recent Ph.D. in molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, cancer biology, epigenetics, or a related field, with a strong interest in cancer epigenetics
• Prior research experience in hematopoiesis and leukemia, cancer mouse models, epigenetics, CRISPR gene editing/screening, or drug development is preferred.
• A record of peer-reviewed publications is highly desirable

Why join the Van Andel Institute as a Postdoctoral Fellow?

Postdoctoral fellows are a crucial part of Van Andel Institute’s efforts to improve the health and enhance the lives of current and future generations. Postdoctoral fellows are full-time employees and receive a competitive annual salary beginning at $71,000.

Along with the competitive salary, our Postdoctoral Fellows are also eligible for VAI benefits, including:

• 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
• 401(k) retirement savings plans with employee/employer contributions
• Paid vacation, holidays, personal days
• Relocation Assistance
• Additional benefit offerings are available, and details will be provided during the recruitment process

VAI recognizes that selecting where to complete a postdoctoral fellowship is a significant decision for postdoctoral fellows. VAI has a dedicated Office of Postdoctoral Affairs, which provides a comprehensive professional development program that supplements training received in VAI labs.

How to Apply:

If you possess these attributes and are interested in this position, we encourage you to apply today! Please submit your online application through Workday, with a single combined PDF file including the following:

• Cover Letter outlining your research interests and career goals
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) including a list of publications
• Contact information for 3 professional references

Please contact Megan Doerr (Megan.Doerr@vai.org) for further information or questions, or if you have any difficulty with the application process.

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 excellence through broad participation and diverse perspectives. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences who share our passion for innovation and collaboration.

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.