Flow Cytometry Specialist (Cell Sorting Technician)

Van Andel Institute (VAI), a world-class biomedical research institute, located in Grand Rapids, MI, 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 Flow Cytometry Core at VAI is seeking to hire a full-time Flow Cytometry Specialist. The Flow Cytometry Core provides assay design, consulting, cell-sorting, and analysis services to researchers at the institute and external collaborators.
As a Flow Cytometry Specialist, you will work under the direction of the Flow Cytometry Core Director. This position offers an opportunity to support diverse biomedical research through interactive cytometry services. This highly technical customer-facing role will provide training and allow you to develop marketable Flow Cytometry expertise and hone your communication skills.
In any given day, your duties and responsibilities might include:

• Performing daily startup, calibration, operation, repair and shutdown of both cell sorters and benchtop analyzers
• Maintain cleanliness of cytometers and lab space
• Assist researchers in core procedures, instrumentations, and data analysis
• Restock and order lab supplies and reagents
• Communicate effectively with the Core Director and facility users

This position might be right for you if you:

• Enjoy helping others and are committed to maintaining a positive work environment.
• Pay attention to detail. Every project, big or small, is worth doing well, every single time.
• Are collaborative and an excellent communicator who is flexible and has a patient customer service-oriented personality.
• Have enthusiasm for and curiosity about a broad range of scientific disciplines
• Are technologically-minded and interested in cutting-edge cytometry instrumentation

To qualify for this position, you need to have at least:

• Bachelor's degree focused on a biological or physical science with laboratory/bench experience.
• Ability to effectively communicate in-person and remotely using written and verbal communication.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Additional helpful experience includes:

• Knowledge of flow principles and techniques is beneficial; however training will be provided.
• Knowledge of biochemical and immunological principles - cell staining, or preparation and tissue cultures are a plus.
• Mechanical aptitude for basic instrument maintenance.

How to Apply:
If you possess the desired qualification and attributes, we welcome speaking with you and strongly encourage you to apply today!
In your application, provide us the following:

• cover letter highlighting key qualifications and why you are interested in this opportunity
• resume
• names and contact information of 3 references

This position will be open until filled and will be reviewing applications on an ongoing basis. We are expecting a pay range of $45,000-$55,000, but the final rate of pay will be dependent upon the candidate's experience, skills, and background. Candidates with Flow Cytometry experience may qualify for a rate of pay outside of this published range. If you have any difficulty uploading your application or any questions, please email Megan Doerr at Megan.Doerr@vai.org.
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 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 Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) Employer.
As Van Andel Institute is a drug and alcohol-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, theatres, 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 often referred to as safe and clean with an eclectic mix of walkable neighborhoods and natural areas.