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 (VAI) is seeking to hire a Genomics Core Associate within our Genomics Core. 

The Genomics Core provides high-throughput genomics support for VAI and collaborating institutions. We support next-generation sequencing, single-cell and spatial genomics services, genotyping and array-based technologies, and a variety of complex molecular biology assays.  Our expert staff partners with investigators to design and troubleshoot experiments, provide training, and ensure reliable, high quality data generation. 

To meet the growing demand for spatial transcriptomics and related services, we are seeking a full-time, intermediate-level associate to join our team.

As a member of our team, your primary responsibility will be to generate and deliver high-quality spatial genomics datasets for VAI scientists and collaborators. This role requires proficiency in assay design, performing histological, imaging, and molecular techniques, and operating complex scientific instrumentation. You will be responsible for supporting spatial transcriptomic and epigenomic projects, including but not limited to evaluating sample quality and preparing samples for sequencing, executing protocols, running and maintaining sophisticated equipment, logging and tracking samples in our LIMS, assisting with instrument quality assessment and calibration, supporting lab safety compliance, training new users, and other core operations as needed. You must be able to work effectively as an individual contributor in a team environment and develop productive relationships with Core users.   

The Genomics Core is a growing team within VAI. This job might be right for you if:

• You are interested in helping to build a sustainable team dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge and providing top-quality customer service. 
• You are enthusiastic about high-throughput automation, sequencing platforms, and emerging technologies.
• You love taking on complex challenges and finding the best solution, whether tried-and-true or cutting-edge.
• You enjoy helping others, and you are patient and levelheaded.
• You are detail-oriented, with a commitment to accuracy and reproducibility. Every project, big or small, is worth doing well, every single time. 
• You are motivated and driven. You take ownership of your projects. You like learning new things and advancing your skillset. If you don’t know the answer, you’ll dig until you find it.
• You enjoy collaborating and working as a team. You respect the skills each team member brings to the table while still being willing to provide constructive criticism.

To join our team, you will need to have at least:

• Advanced degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or a similar field with 4+ years of experience (including graduate research experience), OR
• Bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or a similar field with 6+ years of experience in a similar position.
• Hands-on experience in RNA handling and preservation, quantification, and quality assessment 
• Experience in molecular biology techniques, including cDNA synthesis, PCR amplification, qPCR
• Proficiency in tissue handling and histology, including cryosectioning, tissue embedding, and histological staining (immunofluorescence or H&E)
• Familiarity with methods for tissue preservation and fixation
• Ability to troubleshoot molecular biology, biochemistry, and histology workflows.
• Experience maintaining shared facility instrumentation (ex: cryostat, sequencers, or automation systems)
• Strong communication skills (in person and remote) and ability to work in a collaborative facility setting.
• Desire and ability to develop, cultivate, and maintain strong professional relationships with all customers
• Adherence to biosafety and quality assurance standards in a research setting
• Organizational skills to manage multiple projects and maintain accurate records

Additional helpful experience will include: 

• Previous work in or supporting a shared-resource or Core facility
• Experience with spatial genomics platforms such as 10x Genomics Visium or Bruker GeoMx DSP
• Knowledge of NGS library construction and QC
• Familiarity with short and long read sequencing technologies
• Exposure to in situ hybridization or barcode-based spatial capture technologies
• Knowledge of bright-field or fluorescence microscopy, imaging QC, and preprocessing
• Experience in liquid handling automation and LIMS for sample tracking
• Basic understanding of bioinformatics tools (Seurat, Loupe Browser, FastQC) and scripting languages (R, command line) 

How to apply:

If you possess these attributes and the desire to help us provide best-in-class service to our researchers, we welcome speaking with you and strongly encourage you to apply today! 

In your application, provide us the following in a single combined PDF format:

• cover letter highlighting key qualifications and interest, 
• current curriculum vitae with complete bibliography, 
• names and contact information of 3 professional references, 

This position will be open until filled and will be reviewing applications on an ongoing basis. If you have any difficulty uploading your application or have any questions, please email Megan Doerr at Megan.Doerr@vai.org. 

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.