Research Technician - metabolism
Research Technician
Metabolism
The Wu lab is seeking a full-time or a part-time Research Technician to join our research team. Our lab focuses on glucose and lipid metabolism relevant to diabetes, cancer, immune response and aging. By studying and understanding how metabolite flux is regulated under normal situations, our goal is to prevent diseases and prolong healthier lives. The lab uses huge range of techniques and models, from high resolution protein structure, metabolomics, TC culture, to animal models.
A Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences is required. We are looking for someone who is self-driven and hard-working with a strong sense of curiosity. You should be a highly organized multi-tasker with excellent data management skills who pays attention to detail and values research integrity. Individuals with hands-on bench experience and a strong background in biochemistry and tissue culture experience are preferred. The level of the position will reflect the amount of prior research experience.
The tasks include but not limited to:
- General molecular biology including DNA purification, PCR, cloning, RNA isolation, qPCR
- Mammalian cell tissue culture, signal transduction, western blots
- Insect cell culture, protein expression
- Primary cell isolation from mouse
- IF, confocal imaging, FACS
- Metabolomics sample preparation, method development
This list will change as the projects evolve. Training (and collaboration with the rest of Metabolism group) is available for various techniques required for the above tasks. The lab is very open to new methodologies and techniques. The individual should be equally open-minded to learn new things.
Expectations:
The following expectations should be met within the first 3 months.
- 1 month – Develop a solid understanding of the project, master the techniques involved, and generate new data
- 3 months – Acquire significant data, and begin to take lead of the project
Interested applicants should apply online through the VAI Careers page AND send a cover letter describing research experience and interests, a CV (including GPA), and contact information for two references to ning.wu@vai.org.
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 any questions, please email Eric Miller at eric.miller@vai.org.
VARI is committed to achieving excellence through increasing diversity. We actively encourage applications from women, persons of color, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups.
Van Andel Institute is an EEO and Affirmative Action Employer
About Grand Rapids, MI
Van Andel Research Institute is located in downtown Grand Rapids, MI which is the second largest city in Michigan and the largest city in West Michigan. Grand Rapids offers a remarkable combination of cosmopolitan atmosphere and small town warmth, known for its philanthropic and sustainability-driven community, and is ranked one of "America's Top 100 Places to Live."
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 walk-able 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 endless career opportunities.