Assistant Research Technician - Laboratory of Dr. Hong Li

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), a leading independent biomedical research facility, is dedicated to determining the epigenetic, genetic, molecular and cellular origins of cancer, Parkinson’s and other diseases, and translating those findings into effective therapies. The Institute is home to more than 400 scientists and support staff that work in on‑site laboratories and in collaborative partnerships that span the globe.

The lab of Hong Li, Ph.D., within the Department of Structural Biology, is seeking to hire a full time Assistant Research Technician to join the research team. The designated position will depend on the education and experience of the candidate. Dr. Li’s lab employs molecular biology, biochemistry, and structural biology approaches to investigate fundamental mechanisms of gene regulation and develop their biotechnological applications.

In this role as a Assistant Research Technician
, you will:

• Design and execute molecular cloning experiments
• Design and execute protein purification experiments
• Mentor and train research trainees on experimental techniques and protocols
• Participate in writing publications and grant applications

You will possess a B.S. degree and preferably more than one year of experience, in a related field. The ideal candidate should possess the following characteristics:

• A self‑driven and hard‑working individual who has a strong curiosity about basic science and its clinical application
• A highly organized multi‑tasker who pays attention to detail and values research integrity
• A collegial team member with the ability to interact effectively and cordially with colleagues
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Familiar with bacterial and eukaryotic protein expression systems
• Experience in protein purification and molecular cloning

The following expectations should be met within the first 3 months.

• 1-3 months – Develop a solid understanding of lab projects and background, develop familiarity with lab techniques and approaches. Learn institutional systems for daily lab operations including safety, ordering, inventories, and similar.
• 3-6 months – Take leadership role in lab project coordination, experimental design and execution, assist with training new lab members, serve as a technical resource for other research staff.

All full‑time employees of Van Andel Institute are eligible for benefits, effective Day One! This is a salaried position, which will be based on your experience and skills.

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.