Intermediate Level Research Services Professional

University of Colorado•Aurora, CO

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Cheruiyot Harvey Lab at the Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes is recruiting a professional research assistant to support our studies of mRNA translation and RNA surveillance in the context of pancreatic beta cell autoimmunity and failure in type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. Our laboratory studies fundamental processes related to how mRNA translation fidelity is modulated by nutrient and stress environment surrounding pancreatic beta cells. We employ a variety of techniques including ribosome profiling, proteomics, CRISPR/Cas9 screening, and physiology using both animal models of diabetes as well as cell culture models, including primary culture of rodent and human pancreatic tissue, rodent and human beta cell lines, and stem-cell derived beta cells. Under general supervision, the incumbent will assist general studies in the laboratory using routine assays in biochemistry, cell biology, molecular biology, and in vivo physiology. The incumbent will also be involved in general laboratory maintenance including ordering/restocking, equipment maintenance, and overseeing laboratory safety.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, physiology, molecular biology, genetics or related field
One (1) year of experience in an experimental or wet laboratory
Must be willing and able to work with live mice
Must be in commuting distance, or willing to relocate to commuting distance, to Aurora, CO.
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.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in biology, biochemistry, physiology, molecular biology, genetics or related field
Two (2) years of experience in an experimental or wet laboratory
Prior experience working with animal models such as mice including: Experience in husbandry, including breeding, identification, and genotyping; Knowledge of mammalian anatomy; Experience with surgical procedures including collecting tissue samples; Experience with immunohistochemical techniques; Experience with confocal microscopy and image acquisition
Experience performing standard and routine laboratory techniques such as, but not limited to: Biochemical assays, tissue culture, ELISA, DNA and RNA extraction and quantification, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), protein extraction and western blotting
Proficient knowledge of basic laboratory techniques including safety procedures and techniques
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
Demonstrated commitment and leadership ability to advance diversity and inclusion
Knowledge of basic molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology and/or physiology
Ability to interpret and master complex research protocol information
Ability to work with small animal models
Ability to keep organized and accurate laboratory records, accurately recording workflows and data into electronic laboratory notebooks
Knowledge of proper use and maintenance of laboratory equipment
Ability to follow verbal and/or written instructions
Ability to work with little supervision
Strong organizational skills
Detail-oriented
Ability to begin where others have left off on partially completed procedures
Enthusiasm for learning and a genuine interest in scientific research.
Willingness and ability to learn new skills, research methods, and scientific principles.

Responsibilities

Animal work (20%): Tagging and genotyping of mice; Assist with metabolic studies in mice; Dissect and process mouse tissues for immunohistochemical analysis
Routine and advanced molecular biology, biochemistry, bioinformatics, and cell biology techniques (60%): Standard bench work (e.g., ELISA, PCR and RT-PCR, DNA and RNA purification, protein extraction and western blotting, tissue culture, immunofluorescent staining and confocal microscopy); Culture cell lines and primary tissue (islets); Differentiate human embryonic stem cells to islet cells; Optimize and establish advanced molecular biology techniques including analysis of gene expression (single cell sequencing and ribosome profiling), RNA decay, and mRNA translation; Bioinformatics analysis of available single-cell and proteomics datasets
General lab duties (20%): Take inventory of laboratory supplies and order new supplies as necessary; Equipment setup, maintenance, and repair; Manage chemical inventories and arrange pickup of chemical waste; Act as laboratory safety coordinator; Assist and train junior team members