Teaching Assistant

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.

Teaching Assistant

About Van Andel Institute for K-12 Education

Van Andel Institute for K-12 Education (VAI: K-12) aims to inspire and prepare the next generation of scientists and problem solvers by creating classrooms where curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking thrive. We provide inquiry-based, hands-on learning experiences for students in grades K-12 as well as innovative teaching resources and practical professional development that enable teachers to bolster their instruction with authentic learning experiences that are memorable, meaningful, and fun!

Job Summary

As a Teaching Assistant, you will support the preparation for and delivery of innovative lessons and activities for K-12 students. You’ll work as part of an experienced team to ensure VAI offers the best-in-class student instruction.

Job Duration and Hours

This position will run from about May 26, 2026, through August 14, 2026, with working hours ranging from 30 to 40 hours per week. 

Responsibilities

• Support the Learning Specialist during the instruction of student programming

• Organize instructional materials and set up teaching environments to facilitate innovative instruction

• Maintain equipment and supplies used in educational programming

• Work directly with students in large and small groups

• Share ideas to assist in the development of student learning experiences

• Work independently and collaboratively to ensure content supports VAI’s mission to create classrooms where curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking thrive, while making the world a better place

• All other duties as assigned

 Who We Are Looking for:

• You love working with kids. You recognize the significance of actively involving students in their educational journey, and you are driven to inspire them to aspire for greater achievements.

• You have a desire to learn. You actively seek feedback and pursue opportunities for growth and improvement on your educational path.

• You are a creative thinker. You are willing to think outside the box and contribute ideas to help enhance learning experiences for our students.

• You are dependable. You consistently exhibit punctuality, reliability, self-motivation, drive, and the capability to work independently.

• You work well with others. You take pleasure in fostering collaboration and readily offer support to teammates in need, emphasizing a strong sense of teamwork.

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.

In your application, provide the following in a single combined pdf:

• cover letter outlining why you are interested in this role and how this position aligns with your goals.
• current resume
• names and contact information of 3 professional references (we will check with you before checking references)

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 bac