Research Technician - Lab of Peter Laird, Ph.D.

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 Van Andel Institute has a position available for a full-time Research Technician under the direction of Peter W. Laird, Ph.D. 

The Laird Laboratory focuses on the role of epigenetics in cancer, combining mechanistic studies in model systems, analysis of human cancer tissues, advanced technology development, and epigenomic data analysis. 

Your responsibilities will include:   

• Maintain mammalian cell lines and primary cells, including routine culture, monitoring, and documentation.

• Assist with animal colony maintenance, genotyping, and tissue harvesting.

• Perform molecular cloning and related molecular biology techniques.

• Perform biochemistry techniques, including RNA isolation, PCR, and Western blotting.

• Assist with flow cytometry experiments and sample preparation.

• Support routine laboratory organization, maintenance, and preparation of materials and reagents.

• Maintain accurate and organized experimental records and contribute to reproducible laboratory workflows.

• 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 and molecular biology.

• 1-3 years of research experience in biochemistry, biophysics, and/or molecular or cell biology.

• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to careful, accurate, and reproducible research.

• Ability to follow established protocols while also developing the independence to troubleshoot experiments and learn new techniques.

• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple laboratory tasks and priorities.

• Ability to work effectively as part of a collaborative research team.

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 with cell culture work, including primary cell culture.

• Experience with molecular biology, including primer design, PCR, and analysis of gene expression.

• Experience and/or interest in genomic data analysis or bioinformatics.

• Experience and/or interest in working with mice.

• Experience with flow cytometry, molecular cloning, RNA isolation, or Western blotting.

• Demonstrated ability to learn new laboratory techniques and apply them carefully and independently. 

Description of a Successful Candidate: 

• A “team” focused scientist who enjoys working collaboratively and supporting the research goals of the laboratory.

• A self-motivated and curious individual who is eager to develop scientific expertise and take increasing responsibility for research projects.

• A detail-oriented researcher who thinks critically, follows protocols carefully, and works to understand the scientific rationale behind experiments.

• A strong ability to take initiative, learn independently, and ask thoughtful questions.

• A collaborative, hands-on researcher who proactively shares knowledge and contributes to a positive laboratory environment.

• An organized and dependable team member who can balance routine laboratory responsibilities with research priorities.

• 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 you can expect in this role is 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 Laird 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 [email protected] 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.