Laboratory Program Manager

University of Colorado•Aurora, CO

5d•$65,328 - $83,098•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a highly organized and motivated Laboratory Program Manager to join a pulmonary biology research group dedicated to understanding the mechanisms of pulmonary fibrosis. Our laboratory utilizes a multi-disciplinary approach, combining high-content imaging, patient-derived lung organoids, and single-cell sequencing with in vivo mouse models of lung injury to identify novel therapies and therapeutic targets. The Laboratory Program Manager will serve as the operational hub of the lab, balancing advanced bench work with essential administrative duties. Primary technical responsibilities include the management of a transgenic mouse colony (breeding, maintenance, and genotyping), the generation and maintenance of patient-derived organoids, and execution of standard molecular biology techniques and additional advanced imaging if desired. Administratively, this role is responsible for maintaining strict biosafety compliance, developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), managing purchasing and inventory, reconciling budgets across various funding sources, and providing direct supervision and mentorship to a future Laboratory Technician. The Scott McCall Laboratory at CU Anschutz Medical School and the School of Medicine is seeking a motivated Laboratory Manager to support our work at the interface of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Stem cell biology, and drug discovery. Our lab uses cutting-edge molecular and cellular techniques, imaging, and pharmacology to uncover the mechanisms of disease-emergent cellular change in Pulmonary Fibrosis, discover underlying biology from patient-derived samples, and develop the next generation of therapies. This position offers an excellent opportunity to expand hands-on research experience in a highly collaborative and multidisciplinary environment driven by patient-derived samples. We are particularly interested in candidates with experience in cell culture, molecular biology techniques, and mouse handling, as well as strong organizational skills to assist and manage lab operations. This role is ideal for experienced scientists interested in innovative and multidisciplinary science and seeking to expand expertise and stand up a well-organized and efficient laboratory environment. Candidates who will excel in this role are adaptable, independent and enthusiastic. Because of the scope of work we do, there is tremendous opportunity for technical growth.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, genetics or related field.
Four (4) years of professional level research experience.
An advanced degree (Masters or Doctorate) may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis if the degree is in a field of study directly related to the work assignment.
Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.
Expert 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.
Knowledge of basic human anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology.
Ability to interpret and master complex research protocol information.
Comprehensive understanding of molecular biology, lung physiology, and sterile tissue culture techniques.
Working knowledge of Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) regulations, Institutional Review Board (IRB) protocols for human subjects, and BSL-2 safety standards.
Advanced proficiency in mammalian cell culture, DNA/RNA extraction, PCR/qPCR, and sample preparation for sequencing.
Skilled in rodent handling, restraint, injection (IP, IV, etc.), and tissue harvest.
Proficiency with laboratory management software (e.g., for inventory or colony management), Microsoft Excel (for budgets), and basic statistical or image analysis software.
Ability to independently troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and experimental inconsistencies.
Ability to manage multiple conflicting timelines (e.g., mouse weaning schedules vs. long-term cell culture) without compromising data integrity.
Ability to mentor junior staff effectively, delegate tasks, and foster a collaborative laboratory environment.
Capacity to learn new technologies quickly (e.g., new single-cell sequencing platform requirements or different imaging approaches) and adapt to shifting research priorities.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in biology, pharmacology, immunology, or a related field.
Three (3) or more years of wet-lab experience in an academic or biotechnology setting.
Experience managing transgenic mouse colonies, including complex breeding schemes and genotyping.
Hands-on experience with 3D cell culture systems (organoids/spheroids) or primary epithelial cell isolation.
Previous experience in a supervisory or lab management role that included ordering and budget tracking.
Experience with and knowledge of basic grant structures (e.g., NIH mechanisms) and fund accounting principles to effectively reconcile budgets.

Responsibilities

Conduct cell culture experiments, including isolation and maintenance of primary cells and immortalized cell lines.
Perform molecular biology techniques, such as DNA and RNA extraction, PCR, and preparation of cells for single-cell sequencing.
Mouse colony management including genotyping, breeding, and record- keeping.
Support lab operations by preparing reagents, maintaining inventory, ordering supplies, and ensuring a clean and organized workspace.
Maintain accurate and detailed records of experimental procedures and results using multiple tools as well as laboratory inventory and cryogenically preserved samples/cell lines.