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<p class="x_MsoNormal">Van Andel Research Institute, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, conducts biomedical research with an emphasis on translating scientific results into clinical applications. Van Andel Institute Graduate School trains Ph.D. scientists
to be leading scholars in cellular, molecular and genetic studies relevant to human diseases. This unique doctoral program prepares researchers for effective careers linking the discoveries of basic science with the applications needed for improved human
health.</p>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:Symbol"><span style="">·<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN" style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">Effective transition from
</span><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif""><a href="http://www.vai.org/vaei/graduate-school/students-becoming-scientists.aspx"><span lang="EN">student to scientist</span></a>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Courier New""><span style="">o<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN" style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">Problem-based learning courses guide students to read, think, discuss, and write as scientists
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<span lang="EN" style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Courier New""><span style="">o<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN" style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">Peer-based support group of graduate students from VAIGS and other institutions
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</span></span></span><span lang="EN" style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">Distinguished
</span><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif""><a href="http://www.vai.org/vaei/graduate-school/people-organization/our-faculty.aspx"><span lang="EN">faculty</span></a></span><span lang="EN" style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">
and a low student: faculty ratio </span></p>
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</span></span></span><span lang="EN" style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">Small classes enable personal attention from faculty instructors</span></p>
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</span></span></span><span lang="EN" style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">Weekly seminars bring world renowned scientists to the institute
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</span></span></span><span lang="EN" style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">Careful and caring faculty mentorship
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</span></span></span><span lang="EN" style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">Exceptional
</span><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif""><a href="http://www.vai.org/vaei/graduate-school/people-organization/facilities-and-environment.aspx"><span lang="EN">facilities</span></a></span><span lang="EN" style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">
with extensive core technology support </span></p>
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</span></span></span><span lang="EN" style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">Environment that is interactive, integrative, intense and inspiring
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</span></span></span><span lang="EN" style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">Development of professional skills, experiences and networks
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</span></span></span><span lang="EN" style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">Writing and reviewing grants and manuscripts
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</span></span></span><span lang="EN" style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">Training in responsible and effective conduct of research
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<span lang="EN" style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Courier New""><span style="">o<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN" style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">Oral and poster presentation skills
</span></p>
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</span></span></span><span lang="EN" style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">Travel funds for scientific conferences and retreats</span></p>
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</span></span></span><span lang="EN" style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">Institutional fellowships provide generous stipends, insurance, and research support
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<span lang="EN" style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif""> </span></p>
<p class="x_MsoNormal">Our innovative curriculum leads students to explore fundamental concepts in genetics, biochemistry, cell and molecular biology through highly integrated, problem-based courses based on current research questions, in preparation for their
dissertation research as they take on their professional status as scientists.</p>
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<p class="x_MsoNormal">For the entering class of Fall 2015, we seek effective independent learners who work capably in a collaborative team environment. A solid foundation in cell biology, molecular biology and genetics will be important, but more essential
is an understanding of and passion for the life of a scientist and the exploration of cutting-edge scientific questions. Those with a bold and pioneering spirit will make the most of this opportunity.</p>
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<p class="x_MsoNormal">More information is available at our website (<a href="http://www.vai.org/">http://www.vai.org</a>) or by contacting the graduate school office at
<a href="mailto:gradschool@vai.org">gradschool@vai.org</a> or (616) 234-5708. Thank you in advance for connecting your outstanding students with this outstanding opportunity.</p>
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<p class="x_MsoNormal">Sincerely,</p>
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<p class="x_MsoNormal">Steven J. Triezenberg, Ph.D.</p>
<p class="x_MsoNormal"><span style="">President and Dean, Van Andel Institute Graduate School</span></p>
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<p class="x_MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Century Gothic","sans-serif"; color:#1F497D">____________________________________________</span></b></p>
<p class="x_MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:9.0pt; font-family:"Century Gothic","sans-serif"">333 Bostwick Avenue, NE | Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503-2518
</span></p>
<p class="x_MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:9.0pt; font-family:"Century Gothic","sans-serif"">Telephone: 616-234-5708 | Fax: 616-234-5709 | Email:
<a href="mailto:gradschool@vai.org">gradschool@vai.org</a> <u><span style="color:#365F91"></span></u></span></p>
<p class="x_MsoFooter"><span style="font-size:9.0pt; font-family:"Century Gothic","sans-serif"">Website:
<a href="http://www.vai.org/en/vaei/graduate-school.aspx">www.vai.org/en/vaei/graduate-school.aspx</a>
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