Postdoctoral Fellow

A Postdoctoral Fellow research position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Qiang Zhu ( at Van Andel Institute (VAI). The research group combines multidisciplinary technologies to study disease mechanisms and develop innovative therapeutic approaches for dementia and motor neuron diseases.

Why join the Zhu Lab?

Leadership level role in independent and collaborative projects for ALS and dementia. Strong support and assistance from lab members in the laboratory and core facilities ( ). Research emphasis on cell-type specific toxicities, neuron-glia interactions, genetics and epigenetics will provide insights in identifying novel biomarkers and drug targets. Expand and improve skills: disease models based on genome-modified animals and human iPSCs and 3D-organoids, genetic/epigenetic modification, behavioral neuroscience and electrophysiology. The Zhu lab is within the Department of Neurodegenerative Science and affiliated with the Department of Epigenetics at VAI, which includes highly collaborative scientists revealing groundbreaking new insights into neurodegenerative diseases, epigenetics and structural biology. Qualifications:

A Ph.D. or equivalent degree in neuroscience, molecular and cell biology with interest in neurodegenerative diseases. Previous research experience with neuron-glial interactions, neuroimmunology, gene therapy, metabolism, CRISPR gene editing/screen, iPSCs or animal models are preferred. A record of peer-reviewed publications is highly desirable. Why join the Van Andel Institute as a Postdoctoral Fellow?

Postdoctoral Fellows are full-time employees and receive a competitive annual salary beginning at $71,000 and benefits including 401 K retirement savings plans.

Strong internal grants to support the career development of postdoctoral scholars.

Along with the competitive salary, our Postdoctoral Fellows are 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 Paid vacation, holidays, personal days Relocation Assistance 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 .

The Institute is located in fun, affordable and family-friendly Grand Rapids, MI. 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.

With a medical and life sciences industry boom, strong entrepreneurial activity, dedication to green building and living, and innovative employers, Grand Rapids' diverse economy continues to grow, offering exceptional career opportunities, green building and living, and innovative employers.

Application Process:

If you are interested in this position, please submit the following through Workday (

Curriculum Vitae Cover Letter outlining your research achievements and current and future goals. 3 references (name, relationship, contact email and phone number) If you have questions about the application process or working at VAI, you are welcome to email Natalie Hartford at [email protected] .