MidFull TimeEN
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.
Build a Movement. Grow a Community. Advance Discovery.
Van Andel Institute is seeking a dynamic, relationship-driven leader to serve as Manager of Purple Community, a high-impact role at the intersection of community engagement, fundraising, and cause marketing.
This is more than a management role. It’s an opportunity to mobilize communities, inspire philanthropy, and accelerate biomedical discovery and science education through one of VAI’s most visible and community-powered initiatives.
Why This Role Matters
Purple Community is the public face of grassroots engagement at VAI. As Manager, you will:
Your leadership will directly fuel research breakthroughs and education programs that change lives.
What You’ll Do
Lead & Grow the Program
Manage & Develop Talent
Drive Engagement & Fundraising
Execute High-Impact Events
Strengthen Systems & Visibility
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 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 a single PDF document via the online application:
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.
