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Protein Design Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Van Andel Institute

Postdoctoral Fellow

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$47K - $63K/yr

... protein aggregation, circuit dysfunction, and therapeutic targeting. The successful candidate will ... You will design and execute research projects, analyze and interpret data, and drive manuscripts ...

Leprino

Human Resources Manager

Allendale, MI · On-site

Familiarity with wage surveys, workforce analytics, and training program design for hourly ... of whey protein. Still owned by the Leprino family, our sights are set to be the "World's Best ...

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Protein Design information

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 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 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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution.

Postdoctoral Fellow

Van Andel Institute

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

$47K - $63K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 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.
The Henderson Lab in the Department of Neurodegenerative Science at Van Andel Institute is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Fellow to join a growing and collaborative research program focused on mechanisms of vulnerability in neurodegenerative disease. Our lab integrates human neuropathology, molecular and cellular approaches, and in vivo models to understand how molecular, cellular, and circuit-level processes contributing to diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.
This position offers flexibility to develop an independent research direction aligned with the lab's broader efforts, including topics such as selective vulnerability, protein aggregation, circuit dysfunction, and therapeutic targeting. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to lead innovative, high-impact projects within a well-supported and interdisciplinary environment.
Role and Responsibilities
Postdoctoral Fellows are scientific leaders in the lab. You will design and execute research projects, analyze and interpret data, and drive manuscripts and presentations. You will also contribute to a collaborative team environment and receive mentorship tailored to your career goals in academia, industry, or related fields. VAI provides access to outstanding core facilities and professional development resources.
Qualifications
  • Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Cell Biology, or a related field
  • Strong record of rigorous and productive research (e.g., publications, preprints)
  • Excellent communication and organizational skills

Preferred Expertise
We welcome applicants with diverse backgrounds. Experience in one or more of the following areas is beneficial:
  • Neurodegenerative disease models (in vitro or in vivo)
  • Molecular or cellular biology, biochemistry
  • Histology, imaging, or quantitative analysis
  • Computational or bioinformatics approaches

How to Apply
Please submit a single PDF including:
  • Cover letter describing research interests and fit with the lab
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Contact information for 2-3 references

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. For questions, please contact Natalie Hartford at natalie.hartford@vai.org.
Van Andel Institute is committed to building a diverse and inclusive scientific community and strongly encourages applications from individuals from underrepresented backgrounds. VAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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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