Van Andel Institute (VAI)

VAI is a biomedical research, K–12 & graduate education organization. At VAI, scientists study cancer, Parkinson’s, metabolic disorders and other diseases.

[Van Andel Institute (VAI) @VAInstitute]

Please join us in congratulating Drs. Ellen Stirtz, April Rickle, Sofia leleva, Thomas Goralski and Svetlana Djirackor, who recently earned their Ph.D.s in molecular and cellular biology from Van Andel Institute Graduate School.

[Van Andel Institute (VAI) @VAInstitute]

We are excited to partner with GVSU to help strengthen West Michigan’s position as a hub for advanced computing, biomedical research and healthcare innovation.

[GVSU News @GVNext]

Van Andel Institute and Grand Valley State University are partnering to advance artificial intelligence-driven biomedical research as part of GVSU’s recently approved Ph.D. in Computing.
https://t.co/FUuFruiNjL

[Michael Henderson @MXHend]

We’re hiring a Postdoc in the Henderson Lab @ Van Andel Institute!

Join our team studying neurodegenerative disease across scales (molecular → circuits). Flexible, high-impact projects and strong mentorship.

Apply: https://t.co/QJFXnmLiIy

Please share!

[Van Andel Institute (VAI) @VAInstitute]

https://t.co/QdKcdQ2hhD

[Van Andel Institute (VAI) @VAInstitute]

We are excited to recognize renowned scientist Glenda Halliday, Ph.D., as the recipient of the 2026 Jay Van Andel Award for Outstanding Achievement in Parkinson’s Disease Research!

[Van Andel Institute (VAI) @VAInstitute]

@WUR @Nature Read more: https://t.co/vNZ8gJ7XUU

[Van Andel Institute (VAI) @VAInstitute]

VAI & @WUR scientists used a CRISPR variant to distinguish tumor DNA from healthy DNA by targeting chemical differences present in cancer cells. Published in @Nature, the study is a promising step toward cancer therapy that targets tumor cells with high precision.

[Van Andel Institute (VAI) @VAInstitute]

Read more: https://t.co/5F1JDEJLO2

[Van Andel Institute (VAI) @VAInstitute]

What’s on the horizon in Parkinson’s disease research? In honor of #ParkinsonsAwarenessMonth, VAI’s Dr. Darren Moore highlights five areas to watch for breakthroughs in Parkinson’s research.

[Van Andel Institute (VAI) @VAInstitute]

Read more: https://t.co/GC0wexiiAs

[Van Andel Institute (VAI) @VAInstitute]

A new discovery from VAI scientists shows that a key energy enzyme in tuberculosis-causing bacteria is structured in an unexpected way, which may help it adapt to stress and survive. The findings point toward new ways to make treatments more effective. #WorldTBDay2026

[Grand Rapids Griffins @griffinshockey]

The auction will run until this Sunday evening! 💜🚨

*pick up dates will be determined after our rescheduled Purple Community Game

[Grand Rapids Griffins @griffinshockey]

Join us for our Purple Community Game this Friday presented by the @VAInstitute 💜

GET TICKETS | 🔗 https://t.co/hEfYpNdfgj

[Van Andel Institute (VAI) @VAInstitute]

@MXHend Read more: https://t.co/fRkQlT7rjI

[Van Andel Institute (VAI) @VAInstitute]

Can a chronic stomach infection influence #Parkinsons disease risk? Recent findings by VAI’s @MXHend and colleagues reveal how infection by the H. pylori bacterium may influence the risk and progression of Parkinson’s.

[Van Andel Institute (VAI) @VAInstitute]

@McMasterU https://t.co/u1NB8dNmp7

[Van Andel Institute (VAI) @VAInstitute]

Drug-resistant fungal infections like Candida auris and Cryptococcus neoformans are on the rise. Recently, a team of scientists from VAI and @McMasterU identified a natural substance that may help a group of low-toxicity antifungal drugs work better.

[Van Andel Institute (VAI) @VAInstitute]

In 2025, VAI continued to build scientific momentum and drive discoveries that deepen our understanding of human health. Check out our year of research highlights! https://t.co/TSzleFpD4x

[Van Andel Institute (VAI) @VAInstitute]

Modestly limiting calories promotes the formation of ketones, which act as “fuel” for T cells, reports a study by @DrRGJonesLab & colleagues. The findings pave the way for developing dietary strategies to boost the effects of cancer immunotherapies.
https://t.co/seVm40qBHS

[Van Andel Institute (VAI) @VAInstitute]

VAI & @CureParkinsonsT are thrilled to announce that we have renewed a funding agreement to support the International Linked Clinical Trials Program, the world’s largest drug repurposing clinical trial initiative for #Parkinsons disease.
https://t.co/7Ss0m4yigO