Molecular Biology Research Technician

University of Colorado•Denver, CO

1d•$40,124 - $83,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Mattioli Lab is a newly established research group in the Integrative Biology Department at the University of Colorado Denver, studying how the genome becomes misregulated in cancer. We focus on breast cancer, and specifically on how alternative RNA splicing produces distinct gene isoforms that drive oncogenic cell states. To investigate these questions, we combine molecular biology, cancer biology, and genomics, including long-read RNA sequencing, RNA-targeting CRISPR, and computational analysis. We are recruiting a highly motivated, full-time Professional Research Assistant to help build a brand-new lab from the ground up. This position is ideal for a recent college graduate seeking hands-on training and mentorship in cutting-edge molecular biology, cancer biology, and genomics before applying to PhD or MD programs; we will also consider candidates with more extensive research experience. A minimum two-year commitment is preferred to allow sufficient time for training. While this is primarily an experimental position, the lab does substantial bioinformatics, so there is plenty of opportunity for computational work if desired. As one of the lab's first members, the successful candidate will have an unusual degree of opportunity: to develop and publish independent research projects, help shape the lab's operational and experimental systems, gain exposure to budgeting and grant writing, and work side by side with the PI. The role spans techniques across molecular biology, biochemistry, and genomics, such as cloning, mammalian cell culture, DNA/RNA purification, sequencing library preparation, and CRISPR screening, along with routine lab operations. Prior experience with some of these methods is preferred, but experience with all is not required.

Requirements

A bachelor’s degree in biology, molecular biology, genetics, or a closely related field.
Foundational laboratory or research training or experience. Relevant coursework such as lab courses in molecular biology, cell biology, or general biology will be considered.
Foundational knowledge of molecular biology, including core concepts in gene expression.
Careful and accurate record-keeping, including maintenance of lab notebooks.
Good communication skills and problem-solving.
Ability to take direction and work independently when trained in a technique.
Genuine curiosity about science and a drive to contribute meaningfully to research.
Motivated to learn and grow.
Collaborative, dependable, and contributes positively to a supportive lab culture.
Familiarity with basic data analysis or scientific computing (e.g. R, Python).
Demonstrated interest in cancer biology, gene regulation, RNA biology, or functional genomics.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Nice To Haves

Prior experimental research experience (undergraduate, post-baccalaureate, or professional) in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or genetics.
Experience with one or more of the following techniques: molecular cloning, mammalian cell culture, DNA/RNA extraction, PCR/RT-qPCR, next-generation sequencing, CRISPR-based methods, or single-cell sequencing.

Responsibilities

Conduct molecular biology, biochemistry, and genomics experiments under the direction of the PI, including cloning, mammalian cell culture, DNA/RNA purification, sequencing library preparation, and CRISPR screening (55%25).
Collect, record, and analyze experimental data; maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records; present results at lab meetings (20%25).
Support day-to-day lab operations, including ordering and managing reagents and supplies, maintaining equipment, preparing common stocks, and helping ensure compliance (15%25).
Contribute to the lab’s research output and collaborative environment by participating in lab meetings and journal clubs, helping prepare data for manuscripts, presentations, and grants, and assisting with training of new lab members as the group grows (10%25).