What are the responsibilities and job description for the Core Associate – Mass Spectrometry Core position at Van Andel Institute?
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 Mass Spectrometry Core (MSC) at
Van Andel Institute
(VAI) supports biomedical discovery by delivering rigorous, timely services in metabolomics and proteomics using state‑of‑the‑art LC/MS and GC/MS platforms. We’re seeking a highly organized, detail‑obsessed Research Associate who can operate independently and thrive in a collaborative, fast‑moving team. If you love clean notebooks, crisp SOPs, and beautifully behaving instruments, this is for you.
What You’ll Do
- Own sample processing across metabolomics and proteomics (extractions, digests, cleanups) with strict adherence to SOPs and meticulous record‑keeping.
- Run and monitor instruments (LC/MS and GC/MS): prepare mobile phases, condition columns, verify suitability, monitor sequences, and perform basic maintenance in coordination with instrument leads.
- Coordinate studies (as experience grows): plan sequences/worklists, track status in project management tools, calculate runtimes, submit worklists for approval, and ensure timely data return to collaborators.
- Assure data quality: perform immediate post‑run QC checks, flag issues, initiate re‑runs as needed, and contribute to analysis workflows (e.g., Skyline, Proteome Discoverer, Compound Discoverer, MassHunter).
- Keep the lab humming: help manage chemical and standards inventory, maintain freezer/fridge logs, and uphold bench organization and shared‑space etiquette.
- Contribute to R&D: support method development and performance tracking; present progress at data meetings.
What Makes You a Great Fit
Required
- B.S. or M.S. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Biology, or related field. - Demonstrated wet‑lab experience with careful technique and reproducible execution.
- Exceptional organization and attention to detail; able to manage multiple workflows without dropping threads.
- Proven ability to work independently and as part of a team with strong communication and follow‑through. - Comfort following written protocols and documenting deviations with rationale.
Preferred (nice to have)
- Hands‑on experience with mass spectrometry (metabolomics and/or proteomics) and LC/GC operation.
- Background in experimental biology and/or bioinformatics.
- Familiarity with data analysis tools: Skyline, Proteome Discoverer, Compound Discoverer, MassHunter, Spectronaut, MaxQuant, etc.
- Competency with Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, Teams, and Powerpoint.
Onboarding Milestones
- 1 month: Solid understanding of sample workflows, analytical platforms, and basic data checks.
- 3 months: Independently intake collaborator samples and carry them through processing, data acquisition, QC review, and analysis with minimal oversight.
How We Work
We value stewardship, teamwork, urgency, and attention to detail. You’ll help maintain a clean, safe, well‑organized lab; share responsibilities equitably; and communicate proactively about schedules, workloads, and instrument status. Adhering to SOPs and documenting changes is essential for rigor and reproducibility.
Compensation and Benefits
This position is benefits eligible. A
benefits
overview is available on our careers page. The 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 across a small institute, we encourage you to apply today.
In your application, provide the following in a single combined PDF document:
- Cover letter outlining your experience, future career goals, and why you are interested in this position and the Van Andel Institute
- Current resumé
- Names and contact information of three professional references
Please contact Megan Doerr (
Megan.Doerr@vai.org
) 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.
