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.

Transform Technology. Empower Discovery. Advance Humanity.

At Van Andel Institute (VAI), technology fuels discovery and education that transforms lives. We’re a non-profit biomedical research and science education institute with a bold mission: to improve the health and enhance the lives of current and future generations.

We seek a Chief Information Officer (CIO) to shape and lead a future-focused IT strategy supporting world-changing research and transformative education programs. This isn’t just a leadership role — it’s a chance to make a lasting impact on the future of health through technology.

What You’ll Do

As our CIO, you’ll lead the charge in leveraging technology to empower discovery and drive innovation. Your mission? Ensure our scientists, educators, and staff have the tools and technology to advance groundbreaking research and life sciences education.

Your Mission:

• Develop and lead a strategic IT roadmap that aligns with VAI’s research and education priorities.
• Oversee infrastructure, cybersecurity, and data management, ensuring secure, scalable systems.
• Foster digital transformation and ensure IT solutions enhance collaboration and efficiency.
• Partner with senior leadership to identify and implement technologies that amplify VAI’s mission.
• Build a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within the IT department and across the Institute.

What We’re Looking For

You’re a visionary technology leader with a passion for problem-solving and a deep understanding of how technology can enhance scientific discovery and education.

We value empathetic leadership that empowers teams, fosters collaboration across disciplines and champions continuous learning.

Must-Have Skills & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in information technology, Computer Science, or a related field.
• 10+ years in IT leadership roles (CIO, IT Director, etc.), with experience leading digital transformation initiatives.
• Deep knowledge of cloud computing, data analytics, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies like AI/ML.
• Excellent collaboration and communication skills across diverse teams.
• A strategic mindset with a passion for using technology to solve complex challenges.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in IT Management, Business Administration, or related fields.
• Certifications like CISSP or CITM.
• Experience with NIH regulatory compliance or working in a government-funded research environment.

We welcome candidates with equivalent experience or a combination of skills that meet the needs of this role, even if you don’t meet every qualification listed.

Why You’ll Love It Here

We live and breathe innovation, discovery, and collaboration at Van Andel Institute. Our work is meaningful and purpose-driven; every team member is essential to our success. Here’s why joining VAI will be a transformative career move:

Mission with Impact: Your work will directly support groundbreaking biomedical research and life sciences education programs that improve health and enhance lives.

Growth-Focused Culture: We foster a learning mindset, embrace change as an opportunity, and encourage collaboration across disciplines.

Cutting-Edge Challenges: From cybersecurity to data-driven innovation, you’ll tackle complex IT challenges that push boundaries and drive progress.

Inclusive Environment: We celebrate diverse perspectives and are committed to building a welcoming workplace where everyone can thrive.

Compensation & Benefits

At VAI, we recognize that exceptional leaders deserve exceptional rewards. We offer a competitive compensation package that reflects the scope and impact of this critical leadership role.

Our team members also benefit from a robust and comprehensive benefits program to support well-being, professional growth, and work-life balance.

We also offer family-friendly policies and work-life balance initiatives to ensure our team can thrive professionally and personally.

Learn more about our offerings here: VAI Careers.

Ready to Lead?

Join us in creating a smarter, more connected future that empowers scientific discovery, education, and human health breakthroughs.

Apply now and help us bring technology to life at Van Andel Institute.

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 achieving excellence through increasing diversity. We actively encourage applications from women, persons of color, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups.

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.