Research Project Specialist – Metabolism & Nutrition (MeNu) Program

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 Metabolism & Nutrition (MeNu) Program at Van Andel Institute (VAI) is seeking a Research Project Specialist to join the program management team. VAI’s MeNu Program is is like a small foundation embedded in VAI with the goal of sparking breakthrough discoveries in metabolism. In order to achieve this vision, the MeNu Program equips brilliant scientists with leading technology, crucial collaborators, and cutting-edge support in order to fast-track discoveries, transforming bold ideas into breakthroughs in metabolism.

This full-time Project Specialist position is available immediately for a motivated individual (PhD or Master’s degree) who has experience in research and/or research administration. We’re seeking someone who can confidently step into dynamic research environments and effectively support and advance the goals of the MeNu Program. The ideal candidate will not only execute assigned projects but also independently identify and develop strategic initiatives to enhance our operational effectiveness and research outputs. Success in this role involves proactive communication with faculty and institutional leaders, alongside a keen ability to spot opportunities for collaboration and possibly commercialization. We need a self-starter who is both detail-oriented in execution and strategic enough to see the broader impact of their work, comfortable working within ambiguity, and energized by the challenges inherent in pioneering metabolism research.

This specialist will report to and work closely with the Program Manager (Kelsey Williams, Ph.D.) to enhance operational effectiveness, execute assigned projects, and support strategic goals. Projects and responsibilities may include: developing benchmarking systems, facilitating workshops, managing communications, and preparing materials for program presentations.

In this role as a Research Project Specialist, you will:

• Independently develop and execute strategic projects, such as creating benchmarking systems to evaluate program performance against peer institutions
• Design and facilitate workshops aimed at accelerating the dissemination and publication of research findings supported by MeNu
• Depending on experience, this role may lead project management of a MeNu Leading-edge Initiative, liaising with scientists internally and at partner institutions to drive research progress and track progress
• In conjunction with the Business Development team, interact with faculty to proactively identify and develop commercialization opportunities for metabolism discoveries and technologies that could be supported by MeNu
• Independently prepare presentations, reports, and communication materials for internal and external stakeholders, including institutional leadership and Program Boards, developing strategies for effectively highlighting MeNu research outputs both internally and externally
• May maintain and update the MeNu program web presence and internal communications to ensure clarity, accuracy, and engagement
• Collaborate with partners to facilitate joint initiatives.
• May attend seminars, conferences, and professional development activities relevant to research program management and metabolism/nutrition sciences
• Continuously update knowledge on best practices in team science support and biomedical research management
• Support budget preparation and financial reporting under supervision of the Program Manager
• Track and manage research outputs and metrics, supporting a streamlined and efficient reporting process, including performance tracking and continuous improvement of the research program.
• Perform all other duties as assigned, working onsite (with the possibility of working towards remote work up to two days per week)

For this role as a Research Project Specialist, you must have:

• A Ph.D. in Biology, Biochemistry, Physiology, or related biomedical sciences; or a Master’s degree in a related field with 3+ years of research admin/project management experience
• Demonstrated ability to independently manage projects and deliver outcomes effectively
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal), including experience preparing presentations and reports
• Ability to interact professionally with researchers, faculty, and senior institutional