Research Services Professional/Research Lead

Job Summary:

The Burger laboratory in the Colorado Program for Musculoskeletal Research, within the Department of Orthopedics, is seeking to fill the position of a Research Services Open-Rank Intermediate to Principal Professional. In the Burger lab, we are interested in early vertebrate development of the axial and lateral plate mesoderm using zebrafish and mice as models, as well as associated structural birth defects, such as spina bifida, or defects affecting the heart/blood/bone/kidney. We are further interested in how the axial mesoderm develops into the intervertebral discs, and associated underlying molecular mechanisms, as well as intervertebral disc disease, such as IVD degeneration. The Research Services Principal Professional is expected to be the research lead for several ongoing projects, including design of experimental setup, data generation, and data interpretation, with the following key responsibilities:

Key Responsibilities:

• Conducting molecular biology experiments, such as, but not limited to: PCR, gateway cloning, restriction digest and T4 ligation, Sanger sequencing of plasmid vectors, RNA work, e.g. CRISPR guide RNA generation, mRNA generation, immunohistochemistry/fluorescence, Western blotting, RNA and genomic DNA collection from mouse for RNAseq and ATACseq experiments
• Work with different zebrafish mutant and transgenic strains, such as zebrafish husbandry/breeding, genotyping, embryo microinjections, drug/toxicant screens, phenotyping, etc.
• Ordering consumables and materials, etc.
• Maintaining laboratory area and equipment in working and clean condition
• Contributing to animal protocol writing
• Handling EHS requirements

Work Location:

Onsite - this role is expected to work onsite and is located in Aurora, CO.

Why Join Us:

The Department of Orthopedics' mission is to provide the highest quality patient care and advance the field of orthopedics through innovation in research and education. We place a high level of importance on achieving and maintaining a diverse environment that fosters excellence and rewarding opportunities. The Research Division in the Department of Orthopedics is comprised of a core group of orthopedic faculty pursuing cutting-edge basic, translational and clinical study of the musculoskeletal system. Our research encompasses a broad array of focus areas: genetics of osteoporosis & scoliosis, bone biology, arthritis & joint biology, skeletal healing from the spine to limbs, stem cell biology & tissue engineering, growth plate injury & repair, brain injury-skeleton connections, and orthopedic pain management. We partner with an array of musculoskeletal investigators in various clinical and basic science departments across the 4 campuses of the CU system. Working in our group, you will benefit from a highly collaborative environment with numerous opportunities for career development.

The University of Colorado offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, life insurance, retirement plans, tuition benefits, ECO pass, paid time off - vacation, sick, and holidays and more. To see what benefits are available, please visit: https://www.cu.edu/employee-services/benefits-wellness.

Why work for the University?

We have AMAZING benefits and offer exceptional amounts of holiday, vacation and sick leave! The University of Colorado offers an excellent benefits package including:

• Medical: Multiple plan options
• Dental: Multiple plan options
• Additional Insurance: Disability, Life, Vision
• Retirement 401(a) Plan: Employer contributes 10% of your gross pay
• Paid Time Off: Accruals over the year
• Vacation Days: 22/year (maximum accrual 352 hours)
• Sick Days: 15/year (unlimited maximum accrual)
• Holiday Days: 10/year
• Tuition Benefit: Employees have access to this benefit on all CU campuses
• ECO Pass: Reduced rate RTD Bus and light rail service

There are many additional perks & programs with the CU Advantage.

Diversity and Equity:

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is committed to recruiting and supporting a diverse student body, faculty and administrative staff. The university strives to promote a culture of inclusiveness, respect, communication and understanding. We encourage applications from women, ethnically minoritized individuals, persons with disabilities, persons within the LGBTQ+ community and all veterans. In addition, the Anschutz Campus has also been recognized as an Age-Friendly University. The University of Colorado is committed to diversity and equality in education and employment.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

Intermediate Level:

• Bachelor's degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, genetics or related field
• One (1) year professional level wet lab research experience, including zebrafish work

Senior level:

• Bachelor's degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, genetics or related field
• Two (2) years professional level wet lab research experience, including zebrafish work

Principal level:

• Bachelor's degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, genetics or related field.
• Three (3) years professional level wet lab research experience, including zebrafish work

A combination of education and related technical/paraprofessional experience may be substituted for the bachelor's degree on a year for year basis.

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, genetics or related field
• Four (4) years of experience in an experimental or wet laboratory, including mouse work
• Prior experience with molecular biology methods including, but not limited to PCR, cloning, immunoprecipitation, microscopy, RNA in situ hybridization, etc.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of laboratory techniques including safety procedures and techniques
• Expert ability to analyze and solve complex problems
• Ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and orally
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees at all levels throughout the institution
• Outstanding customer service skills
• Demonstrated commitment and leadership ability to advance diversity and inclusion
• Knowledge of basic human anatomy, physiology medical terminology
• Ability to interpret and master complex research protocol information {SME} Expert

How to Apply:

For full consideration, please submit the following document(s):

1. A letter of interest describing relevant job experiences as they relate to listed job qualifications and interest in the position

2. Curriculum vitae / Resume

3. Three to five professional references, including name, address, phone number (mobile number if appropriate), and email address

Questions should be directed to: Thomas Roller, THOMAS.ROLLER@CUANSCHUTZ.EDU

Screening of Applications Begins:

Screening begins immediately and continues until position is filled.

Anticipated Pay Range:

The starting salary range for this position has been established as:

Intermediate: $48,970-$62,290

Senior: $52,941-$67,341

Principal: $60,882-$77,442

The above salary range (or hiring range) represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. This position may be eligible for overtime compensation, depending on the level.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Colorado provides generous leave, health plans and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Total Compensation Calculator: http://www.cu.edu/node/153125

ADA Statement:

The University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at hr.adacoordinator@cuanschutz.edu.

Background Check Statement:

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our faculty, staff, students and visitors. To assist in achieving that goal, we conduct background investigations for all prospective employees.

Vaccination Statement:

CU Anschutz strongly encourages vaccination against the COVID-19 virus and other vaccine preventable diseases. If you work, visit, or volunteer in healthcare facilities or clinics operated by our affiliated hospital or clinical partners or by CU Anschutz, you will be required to comply with the vaccination and medical surveillance policies of the facilities or clinics where you work, visit, or volunteer, respectively. In addition, if you work in certain research areas or perform certain safety sensitive job duties, you must enroll in the occupational health medical surveillance program.