Assistant Research Technician

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) Professor Scott Rothbart, Ph.D. is hiring an Assistant Research Technician. Our lab explores how the molecular mechanisms governing chromatin and genome function shape human health and disease, with a particular focus on uncovering new insights into cancer.

Why choose the Rothbart Laboratory?

• The lab is an interdisciplinary team developing new and innovative in vitro systems, “omic” technologies and computational approaches to answer key questions.
• Dr. Rothbart is an experienced investigator and mentor who is dedicated to the education and training of scientists to prepare them to become leaders in the biomedical science community.
• Dr. Rothbart is a project leader on an NCI SPORE grant for Epigenetic Therapies and a basic science investigator on the Van Andel Institute-Stand Up to Cancer Epigenetics Dream Team. Major goals of these programs are to translate laboratory discoveries into clinical trials for cancer management.
• The Rothbart Lab operates within the VAI Department of Epigenetics, which includes a world-class group of highly collaborative scientists seeking to understand roles for epigenetic mechanisms in development and disease.

Your responsibilities will include:   

• Assist with animal colony maintenance, genotyping, administration of experimental agents, tissue harvesting and staining (including fixation, embedding, and immunostaining).
• Maintain mammalian and primary cell lines.
• Perform molecular biology techniques, including cloning, RNA/DNA isolation, PCR.
• Perform biochemistry techniques, including protein purification and Western blotting.
• Support routine laboratory maintenance and preparation of materials and reagents.
• Maintain accurate and organized experimental records.
• Work collaboratively with laboratory members to support ongoing research projects and learn new experimental techniques.

This is a hands-on, early-career research position. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to develop technical expertise while contributing to active cancer and epigenetics research programs in a collaborative laboratory environment. 

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor's degree or higher degree in a biological science and a good understanding of cellular & molecular biology. 

• At least one (1) year of wet lab bench experience is preferred

Desired Skills – in addition to an intense curiosity of biology and a willingness to learn new techniques, you should possess at least some of the following:   

• Experience and/or interest in working with mice 
• Experience with mammalian cell culture

• Experience with molecular biology, including PCR, gel electrophoresis, cloning, bacterial transformation, DNA/RNA/protein extraction, lenti- and retro-virus production, CRISPR 

• Experience with library prep and sequencing
• Experience making buffers or other laboratory reagents

Description of a Successful Candidate: 

• A “team” focused, collaborative scientist 

• A self-motivated and driven individual who can exhibit exceptional research productivity

• A strong ability to take initiative and work independently 

• Excellent written and oral communication skills 

Compensation and Benefits

All full-time employees of Van Andel Institute are eligible for benefits, effective Day One! The hourly rate of pay is $20-$25, based on your experience and skills.

HOW TO APPLY 

If you possess these attributes and enjoy working with motivated and driven people, we would welcome speaking with you and encourage you to apply today!  

• A cover letter describing your research interests, experience, and how you might contribute to Rothbart Lab Research. 

• An up-to-date Curriculum Vitae. 

• A list of 2-3 individuals who have agreed to act as references along with their contact details.   

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

ABOUT VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE
Van Andel Institute (VAI) is committed to improving the health and enhancing the lives of current and future generations through cutting-edge biomedical research and innovative educational offerings. Established in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1996 by the Van Andel family, VAI is now home to more than 650 scientists, educators and support staff, who work with a growing number of 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. Learn more at vai.org.

Van Andel Institute is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) Employer. We are committed to cultivating a workplace in which different perspectives and experiences are welcomed and respected. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, ancestry, national origin, sex, age, disability (physical or mental), marital or veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, political ideology, or membership in any other legally protected class. We are an Equal Opportunity 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.