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Protein Design Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

University of Michigan

RESEARCH FELLOW

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

Ability to design and execute complex biological experiments using tools such as cell imaging, CRISPR, chemoproteomics, protein purification or structural biology are required. Desired Qualifications*

Varsity Tutors

Biochemistry Tutor

Detroit, MI · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... protein purification strategies, and interpreting gel electrophoresis results. Emphasizes molecular-level reasoning and connects biochemistry to drug design, clinical diagnostics, and genetic disease ...

Varsity Tutors

Biochemistry Tutor

Kalamazoo, MI · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... protein purification strategies, and interpreting gel electrophoresis results. Emphasizes molecular-level reasoning and connects biochemistry to drug design, clinical diagnostics, and genetic disease ...

Varsity Tutors

Biochemistry Tutor

Ann Arbor, MI · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... protein purification strategies, and interpreting gel electrophoresis results. Emphasizes molecular-level reasoning and connects biochemistry to drug design, clinical diagnostics, and genetic disease ...

Cargill

Project Engineer

Lake Odessa, MI · On-site

Our portfolio includes poultry, beef, egg, alternative protein, salt, oils, starches, sweeteners ... Help manufacturing plant and facilities engineers with facility planning and design. * Help conduct ...

New

Cargill

Process Engineer

Hersey, MI · On-site

Our portfolio includes poultry, beef, egg, alternative protein, salt, oils, starches, sweeteners ... Understanding of PI (data historian), ACAD (auto CAD), MS Project Additional Information Position ...

Cargill

Process Engineer

Hersey, MI · On-site

Our portfolio includes poultry, beef, egg, alternative protein, salt, oils, starches, sweeteners ... Understanding of PI (data historian), ACAD (auto CAD), MS Project Additional Information Position ...

Cargill

Process Engineer

Hersey, MI · On-site

Our portfolio includes poultry, beef, egg, alternative protein, salt, oils, starches, sweeteners ... Understanding of PI (data historian), ACAD (auto CAD), MS Project Additional Information Position ...

Cargill

Process Engineer

Hersey, MI · On-site

Our portfolio includes poultry, beef, egg, alternative protein, salt, oils, starches, sweeteners ... Understanding of PI (data historian), ACAD (auto CAD), MS Project Additional Information Position ...

Cargill

Senior Project Engineer

Lake Odessa, MI

$95K - $123K/yr

Our portfolio includes poultry, beef, egg, alternative protein, salt, oils, starches, sweeteners ... Drive and support integration of, and adherence to, corporate and legal requirements in the design ...

New

Cargill

Senior Project Engineer

Lake Odessa, MI

$95K - $123K/yr

Our portfolio includes poultry, beef, egg, alternative protein, salt, oils, starches, sweeteners ... Drive and support integration of, and adherence to, corporate and legal requirements in the design ...

New

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsProtein Design JobsProtein Design Jobs in Michigan

Protein Design information

What is the difference between Protein Design vs Protein Engineering?

AspectProtein DesignProtein Engineering
Required CredentialsBiochemistry, Molecular Biology, BioinformaticsBiochemistry, Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, biotech companies, academiaResearch labs, biotech companies, academia
Industry UsageDesigning novel proteins, drug development, synthetic biologyModifying existing proteins for improved function or stability

Protein Design focuses on creating new proteins with specific functions, often using computational methods. Protein Engineering involves modifying existing proteins to enhance or alter their properties. Both roles require similar skills and are used in research, biotech, and pharmaceutical industries, but their goals differ: one designs from scratch, the other optimizes existing proteins.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in protein design, and how are they addressed within a team setting?

Professionals in protein design often encounter challenges such as predicting accurate protein folding, ensuring stability, and achieving desired biological activity. These complexities are typically addressed through close collaboration with computational biologists, structural biologists, and experimental scientists. Teams frequently hold cross-functional meetings to troubleshoot issues, share findings, and iterate on design strategies based on laboratory results. This collaborative environment helps leverage diverse expertise and accelerates the development of novel proteins with desired functions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Protein Design Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Protein Design Scientist, you need a strong background in molecular biology, biochemistry, and computational modeling, typically supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field. Proficiency with tools such as Rosetta, PyMOL, and molecular dynamics simulation software, as well as experience with protein expression and purification techniques, is essential. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are important soft skills to drive innovation and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for designing functional proteins, troubleshooting experiments, and advancing research goals in biotechnology and pharmaceutical development.

What is protein design?

Protein design is the process of creating new proteins or modifying existing ones to have specific functions or properties. This can involve using computational tools, laboratory techniques, or a combination of both to predict and engineer amino acid sequences that will fold into desired three-dimensional structures. Protein design is used in various fields, including medicine, biotechnology, and research, to develop novel enzymes, therapeutics, or materials. The field requires a strong understanding of biology, chemistry, and computer science to achieve successful outcomes.
What are popular job titles related to Protein Design jobs in Michigan? For Protein Design jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Protein Design jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Protein Design jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Protein Design jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Protein Design job openings:
Protein Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Protein Design job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Assistant Research Technician - Laboratory of Dr. Hong Li

Van Andel Institute

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

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.
Van Andel Institute (VAI), a leading independent biomedical research facility, is dedicated to determining the epigenetic, genetic, molecular and cellular origins of cancer, Parkinson's and other diseases, and translating those findings into effective therapies. The Institute is home to more than 400 scientists and support staff that work in on-site laboratories and in collaborative partnerships that span the globe.
The lab of Hong Li, Ph.D., within the Department of Structural Biology, is seeking to hire a full time Assistant Research Technician to join the research team. The designated position will depend on the education and experience of the candidate. Dr. Li's lab employs molecular biology, biochemistry, and structural biology approaches to investigate fundamental mechanisms of gene regulation and develop their biotechnological applications.
In this role as a Assistant Research Technician, you will:
  • Design and execute molecular cloning experiments
  • Design and execute protein purification experiments
  • Mentor and train research trainees on experimental techniques and protocols
  • Participate in writing publications and grant applications

You will possess a B.S. degree and preferably more than one year of experience, in a related field. The ideal candidate should possess the following characteristics:
  • A self-driven and hard-working individual who has a strong curiosity about basic science and its clinical application
  • A highly organized multi-tasker who pays attention to detail and values research integrity
  • A collegial team member with the ability to interact effectively and cordially with colleagues
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Familiar with bacterial and eukaryotic protein expression systems
  • Experience in protein purification and molecular cloning

EXPECTATIONS
The following expectations should be met within the first 3 months.
  • 1-3 months - Develop a solid understanding of lab projects and background, develop familiarity with lab techniques and approaches. Learn institutional systems for daily lab operations including safety, ordering, inventories, and similar.
  • 3-6 months - Take leadership role in lab project coordination, experimental design and execution, assist with training new lab members, serve as a technical resource for other research staff.

COMPENSATION and BENEFITS
All fulltime employees of Van Andel Institute are eligible for benefits, effective Day One! This is a salaried position, which will be based on your experience and skills.
HOW TO APPLY
If you possess these attributes and enjoy working with motivated and driven people, we welcome speaking with you and encourage you to apply today!
  • A cover letter describing your research interests, experience, and how you might contribute to research in the Hong Li Lab.
  • An up-to-date Curriculum Vitae.
  • Names of 2 individuals who have agreed to act as references along with their contact details.

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.

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