Lab Researcher - Hume Lab

National Jewish Health•Denver, CO

19h•Onsite

About The Position

The Hume Lab at National Jewish Health is seeking a motivated Lab Researcher to study how cigarette smoke and e-cigarette vapor affect immune defenses in the lung. The position offers hands-on experience with human lung samples, cell culture, mouse models, and bacterial infection experiments in a collaborative research environment. Our research focuses on macrophages, immune cells that help protect the lungs from infection. We investigate how smoking and vaping change macrophage function and how those changes may weaken defenses against bacteria. Using a growing collection of donated human lung tissue, we study where immune cells reside and how they behave in different regions of the lung. We also examine macrophages from patients with a genetic predisposition to lung disease called Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. The Lab Researcher will help conduct experiments using primary human and mouse macrophages, cell lines, and research mice. Our work includes cigarette smoke and e-cigarette vapor exposure models, bacterial culture, and studies involving Streptococcus pneumoniae. The researcher will also help maintain and organize our established human lung tissue bank. Training in laboratory-specific methods will be provided.

Requirements

Ability and willingness to work with research mice is required.
Bachelor's Degree required.
2 years of Laboratory Experience required.
A Master’s Degree and laboratory experience may be substituted for the required 2 years of work experience.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience with sterile cell culture, Western blotting, flow cytometry, PCR, ELISA, or bacterial culture is preferred.
Other methods used in the lab include tissue histology, fluorescence microscopy, and data analysis.

Responsibilities

Work under the supervision of the principal investigator and collaborate closely with members of the Hume Lab and the broader multi-investigator research group.
Perform experiments independently after training.
Collect, organize, analyze, and graph data using Microsoft Excel and GraphPad Prism, with training provided as needed.
Maintain clear, accurate laboratory records and communicate results with integrity and transparency, including unexpected or inconclusive findings.
Present findings at lab meetings using PowerPoint.
Assist with laboratory maintenance and day-to-day operations.
Develops new techniques and investigative procedures, including scientific routines, computer programming techniques and data reporting techniques.
Monitors quality control of routines, experiments, general laboratory activities and the use of research animals in the laboratory setting.
Performs laboratory functions unique to the assigned laboratory.
Provides general guidance to laboratory staff, including technicians, support and auxiliary staff.
Acts as a leader for laboratory programs and staff in assigned areas.
Demonstrates enhanced proficiency in data analysis, preparation of glassware, extraction and plating procedures, programming and mathematical ordering systems.
Prepares statistical tabulations, using a calculator or computer.
Oversees supply functions, inventory control, equipment use and maintenance, and animal care and ordering, as needed.
Maintains compliance with all institutional / safety training requirements.
Maintains laboratory records, supplies, samples in an organized manner (such as a laboratory notebook and sample storage record).
Acts a liaison to other department personnel, outside investigators, and vendors.
Performs routine and non-routine tests leading to the successful completion of developed experiments.
Performs all other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Comprehensive Medical Coverage: Multiple Cigna health plans for Colorado, regional office and remote employees.
Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) available to pair with some plans.
Paid Time Off: Generous PTO accruals to use for vacation and sick days, and six paid holidays, all compliant with Colorado state sick leave regulations.
Dental & Vision Plans: Coverage effective the first of the month after hire.
Retirement Savings: 403(b) plan with employer contributions after two years.
Wellness Incentives: Earn up to $200 annually for preventive health activities.
Tuition Reimbursement: Up to $5,250 annually for full-time and part-time employees.
Child Care Assistance: Childcare Flex Spending Account (FSA) with annual employer contribution.
Loan Forgiveness: Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligible employer.
Disability & Life Insurance: Employer-paid plans and optional buy-up choices.
Voluntary Benefits: Full suite of coverage options such as Accident, Hospital Indemnity and Legal Plan
Exclusive Discounts: Savings on local services, insurance, and RTD bus passes.