Image Analyst (Core Bioinformatician)

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), is seeking to hire an Image Analyst (Core Bioinformatician) within our Optical Imaging Core. The Optical Imaging Core (OIC) provides imaging services for VAI and collaborating institutions. Its goal is to serve the VAI community with state-of-the-art imaging resources to address a broad variety of research questions, as well as offering the expertise to train researchers to use these resources effectively.

As an Image Analyst on our team, you will assist researchers by providing technical and computational expertise to accomplish their goals through bioimage analysis. In this role, you will be responsible for developing and supporting advanced image analysis workflows, including but not limited to Python-based image processing/analysis pipelines, training of novel machine learning models, bespoke pipelines with existing image analysis software, and FAIR use protocols for reproducible, unbiased image-based assays. You will collaborate with our existing image analyst as well as work directly with PIs and researchers to help design and optimize imaging experiments for appropriate downstream analyses.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Developing, performing and teaching basic and advanced image analysis: image processing pipelines, training machine learning models and segmentation algorithms, bespoke programs, and FAIR protocols for reproducible unbiased image-based assays
• Scaling up image processing protocols to increase throughput and batch processing
• Preparing written statements of work, action plans, and progress reports
• Training, education, and support for image analysis related topics

What you will like the most about working in the Optical Imaging Core:

• You will be working with imaging data collected on state-of-the-art imaging technology
• Your efforts will contribute to high-level research in diverse scientific fields
• You will have the opportunity to collaborate with research scientists to develop novel image analysis techniques

The skills you will be required to have in this role:

• Master’s degree with PhD preferred (computer science, biology, molecular biology, biochemistry or other related area of study)
• Minimum of 3+ years of applied experience with bioimage analysis techniques (preferred with multiple imaging modalities)
• Fluency in Python
• Ability to effectively communicate in-person and remotely
• Manage a diverse set of obligations on a daily basis with rapidly changing demands and priorities
• Self-paced with strong initiative

You will have the opportunity to gain:

• Experience working with diverse imaging modalities 

COMPENSATION and BENEFITS

All full-time employees of Van Andel Institute are eligible for benefits, effective Day One! The salary you can expect in this Image Analyst role is based on your experience and skills.

YOUR NEXT STEPS!

If you are a person who has demonstrated success in these areas, we would love to have a conversation with you! The first step in beginning this conversation is starting your application.

Please submit the following as one single PDF document

• Online Application
• CV/Resume
• Cover Letter outlining why you are interested in this role and how this position aligns with your goals
• 3 References (names, how you know them, email and phone number) – Please note: we will not reach out to your references without informing you first
• Link(s) to your gitHub or other code repositories
• Applicants will be given a skills-based assessment after first round interviews.

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.