Laboratory Research Professional

University of Colorado•Aurora, CO

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The School of Dental Medicine is seeking a full-time (1.0 FTE) open-rank Laboratory Science Professional to join a research laboratory within the Department of Craniofacial Biology. The successful candidate will contribute to a project exploring the effect of an antibacterial polymers within dental composites. The overarching goal of the study will be to provide therapeutic directions aimed at the prevention of dental caries. This is a term-limited position, with funding secured for two years. This open-rank Laboratory Science Professional will perform duties in an experimental lab, or wet lab, and handle a variety of chemicals and/or potential “wet” hazards. Individuals perform laboratory duties where chemicals, drugs, or other materials or biological matters are tested and analyzed. This position is in a materials science lab that develops smart polymers specifically for drug delivery and dental applications. This role will be responsible for assisting the Principal Investigator and the associated research team with polymer-based biomaterials projects. The primary focus on the research investigations will be on the development and evaluation of polymeric materials used in a variety of medical and dental applications. Individual will be responsible for carrying out independent research functions, keeping a detailed notebook of experiment activities, maintaining lab equipment, ordering supplies, reconciling monthly expenditures complying with EHS safety requirements, conducting literature research and participating in weekly scientific meetings.

Requirements

A bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, microbiology, chemistry or chemical and biological engineering, or a directly related field from an accredited institution.
A combination of education and related technical/paraprofessional experience may be substituted for the bachelor’s degree on a year for year basis.
One year of professional experience in a dental clinic or dental materials lab environment (for Intermediate Professional).
Two years of professional research experience, with a minimum of one year experience in a dental clinic or dental materials lab environment (for Senior Professional).
Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship.
Ability to contribute to the process for identifying patentable inventions.
Ability to independently review, interpret, develop and implement new or modified laboratory techniques required for research projects.
Demonstrated knowledge of laboratory techniques including the ability to analyze and solve problems.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees at all levels throughout the institution.
High level knowledge of biomaterial processes.
Ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and orally.
Demonstrated commitment and leadership ability to advance diversity and inclusion.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience working as a dental assistant.
Experience working with tooth samples to create restorations, testing them in environments that resemble the oral cavity.
Experience formulating, synthesizing and characterizing the material property evolution and reaction kinetics of nanogels and hydrogels.
Experience identifying patentable inventions.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with and support Principal Investigator (PI) and research team with laboratory and research functions.
Utilize a variety of laboratory techniques required for research projects.
Perform experiments, tabulate and analyze data, and write up reports for publications.
Support analytical testing using standard lab support knowledge in the collection and review of conditions, including preparing samples, completing sample preparation, documenting and communicating results.
Prepare and inspect lab for daily operations including stocking materials, equipment, safety checks, cleanliness, and related areas.
Pick up, transport, and maintain results, samples, documents, materials and other items as needed.
Independently locate and review scientific and technical literature and share any new information at weekly lab meetings.