Intermediate Research Services Laboratory Professional

University of Colorado•Aurora, CO

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Wortham Lab at the Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes is recruiting a professional research assistant to support our studies of pancreatic beta cell adaptation and failure in diabetes. Our laboratory studies fundamental processes related to how pancreatic beta cells sense and respond to stress. We employ a variety of techniques including genomics, metabolomics, genetics, and physiology using both animal models of diabetes as well as primary culture of human pancreatic tissue. 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.

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.
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
Ability to work with small animal models
Detail-oriented
Ability to follow verbal and/or written instructions
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
Strong organizational skills
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

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 mice
Experience in mouse husbandry
Knowledge of mouse anatomy
Experience with mouse surgical procedures including collecting tissue samples from mice
Experience with histological and immunohistochemical techniques
Experience with light and fluorescence microscopes and image acquisition.
Skill, knowledge, and ability to perform standard and routine laboratory techniques such as, but not limited to, FACS analysis/sorting, tissue culture, ELISA, RNA extraction and RT-PCR, protein extraction and western blotting.
Ability to work with little supervision.
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

Assist with metabolic studies in mice
Dissect and process mouse tissues for immunohistochemical analysis
Standard bench work (e.g., FACS analysis/sorting, ELISA, RNA purification and RT-PCR, protein extraction and western blotting, tissue culture, immunofluorescent staining and confocal microscopy)
Culture cell lines and primary tissue
Optimize and establish advanced molecular biology techniques including single cell genomics for analysis of gene expression and chromatin state
Equipment setup, maintenance, and repair
Manage chemical inventories and arrange pickup of chemical waste
Assist and train junior team members