VAI is hiring for an Assistant Dean. VAI Graduate School develops future leaders in biomedical research through an intense, problem-based learning focused Ph.D. degree in molecular and cell biology. By combining rigorous, inquiry-based coursework with extensive experience in laboratories led by the Institute’s expert faculty, the Graduate School prepares students for productive careers in biomedical research and beyond. The Graduate School thrives within a collaborative state-of-the-art research environment, currently ranked #3 in the Nature Index of U.S. independent research institutes, and offers access to extensive core technology and collaborators in Grand Rapids, Michigan and around the world.

Position Summary:

The Assistant Dean, reporting to the Dean of the Graduate School, provides creative and effective leadership for students, faculty and staff to support doctoral student academic milestones, predoctoral fellowship and grant development, scientific writing, and professional development programming. The Assistant Dean partners with faculty and Graduate School Staff to promote student success and contributes to the continuous improvement of Graduate School programs, policies, and academic initiatives.

This position is ideally suited for an accomplished biomedical scientist who is passionate about mentoring trainees and is excited to leverage prior experience as an independent investigator to shape graduate education. The Assistant Dean serves as a bridge between the research enterprise and graduate education, ensuring that students develop the scientific, professional, and leadership skills necessary for successful careers in biomedical research.

Responsibilities:

• Provide individualized guidance and mentorship to doctoral students as they progress through key academic milestones including lab selection, formation of the thesis advisory committee, comprehensive examination, and dissertation defense.

• Serve as Graduate School Staff Liaison to the Comprehensive Exam and Dissertation Organizing Committee by coordinating committee activities, supporting policy development and implementation, preparing materials for committee review, and communicating recommendations to Graduate School leadership.

• Develop, direct, and teach graduate-level courses or other programming focused on scientific writing, fellowship and grant preparation, and other areas aligned with the candidate's expertise and Graduate School needs.

• Identify and promote external fellowship opportunities and provide individualized guidance to students through proposal development in collaboration with the Office of Sponsored Research and student dissertation advisor.

• Support accreditation efforts, particularly regarding student academic milestones.

• Contribute to the development and implementation of Graduate School academic policies and resources, including the academic catalog, student handbook, and recruitment materials.

• Represent the Graduate School within the institute and in external professional and academic communities.

• Responsibly steward VAI and Graduate School resources.

• Perform other tasks at the request of the Dean that support the mission of the Graduate School.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ph.D. or terminal degree and postdoctoral experience in a biological/biomedical science discipline.

• Experience mentoring graduate students and/or postdoctoral fellows.

• Experience in writing or mentoring fellowship or grant applications.

• Teaching experience in higher education, preferably at the graduate level.

• Strong analytical reasoning skills, oral and written communication skills, and project management skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 4-6 years of independent faculty experience leading a biological/biomedical science lab.

• Leadership experience in graduate education (e.g., Graduate Program Director, Director of Graduate Studies, Assistant Dean, or equivalent).

• Experience mentoring graduate students through dissertation research and major academic milestones.

• Demonstrated interest in learner-centered graduate education, curriculum development, and professional development.

• Experience collaborating across research, education, and administrative units.

• A record of innovation or continuous improvement in graduate education, mentoring, or trainee development.

Compensation and Benefits

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

How to apply:

We would love to have a conversation with you! The first step in this conversation is application.

In your application, please provide the following in a single combined PDF file:

• cover letter highlighting key qualifications,

• current curriculum vitae with complete publication list,

• names and contact information of 3 references.

Applications received by September 1, 2026, can be assured of full consideration. Interviews will take place in September and October with an expected decision in October/November. If you have any difficulty uploading your application or any questions, please email Natalie Hartford at

About Grand Rapids, MI 

Van Andel Institute is in downtown  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,  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.