Van Andel Institute’s Laboratory of Dr. Lena Brundin is seeking to hire a Postdoctoral Fellow to work on a recently awarded grant.
The minimum 2-year postdoctoral position, with a possibility of extension pending successful grant applications and performance, is available immediately and intended for a motivated scientist who meets the qualifications and description outlined below. This fellow will investigate the contribution of the kynurenine pathway, inflammation and infections in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and/or Depression. The project will include sample and data analysis from clinical patients as well as animal models.
The fellow will primarily be a member of the L. Brundin laboratory and directly report to Dr. Lena Brundin. As the fellow will be working on joint projects, he/she will also participate in regular project progress meetings together with additional PIs at Van Andel Institute.
The Department of Neurodegenerative Science focuses on elucidating disease mechanisms and identifying novel disease-modifying therapeutic approaches for major neurodegenerative diseases, with a special focus on Parkinson’s disease. Additional areas of interest include dementias (Alzheimer’s disease, dementia with Lewy bodies) and psychiatric disorders (depression, anxiety). Department faculty have research interests and expertise in the molecular underpinnings of neurodegenerative disease through an understanding of genetic risk, epigenetics, cell biology, biomarkers, neuropathology, neuroinflammation, neural circuits and patient-derived biospecimens.
Qualifications:
- A Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. in neuroscience, behavioral medicine, biochemistry, molecular/cell biology, or related subjects is required.
- Research interest in neurology or/and mental health areas (human studies or/and animal models).
- Molecular and cell biology skills such as ELISA, qPCR, Western Blotting, immunohistochemistry will be considered strengths.
- Previous experience with animal models is a strength.
- A record of peer-reviewed publications.
- Must provide the names of three individuals who can provide recommendations and present a scientific seminar describing his or her previous research.
Preferred qualifications:
- A self-motivated individual who is passionate about the project and willing to take challenges and open to suggestions and feedbacks.
- Able to lead projects and make progress in a timely manner, as well as a team player. Participate in group meetings with a positive attitude.
- A collaborative, hands-on researcher who proactively shares knowledge and expertise with lab members.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Van Andel Institute (VAI) provides postdoctoral training opportunities to scientists beginning their research careers. The fellowships are to help promising scientists advance their knowledge and research experience and at the same time support the research endeavors of VAI under the mentorship of a VAI Faculty member.
While this project is currently funded, an integral part of postdoctoral training is the process of preparing a research proposal and writing a fellowship application. All VAI Postdoctoral Fellows are encouraged to apply for external funding as soon as it is practical and reasonable after hire. Receiving a fellowship award provides recognition for both the fellow and VAI!
Application Process:
Qualified applicants should provide a cover letter outlining research experience and interests, a curriculum vitae, and the names and addresses of three references.
If you possess these attributes and desire to help us drive science from the bench to the clinic; while benefiting from a highly generous compensation package; we would welcome speaking with you and encourage you to apply today.
VAI is actively striving to diversify its workforce and strongly encourages qualified individuals from underrepresented groups to apply. Van Andel Institute is an EEO and Affirmative Action Employer.
This position will be open until filled. If you have any difficulty uploading your application or any questions, please email Eric Miller at eric.miller@vai.org.
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