Professional Research Assistant

University of Colorado • Denver, CO

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Our laboratory leads innovative, translational research that advances cardiovascular therapeutics for both women and men by integrating biomaterials, nanotechnology, and cardiovascular mechanobiology. Our lab’s success depends on rigorous scientific methodology, ethical conduct, and a shared commitment to generating knowledge that meaningfully impacts both the scientific community and society. As a member of the lab, you will contribute directly to this mission, whether through designing and executing experiments, analyzing complex datasets, or helping develop technologies such as engineered mechanobiology platforms, nanoparticle-based therapeutics, engineered in vitro models, etc. We will tailor your experience to your comfort level but anticipate that you will ultimately design and carry-out experiments independently.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, genetics, or related field.
• A combination of education and related technical/paraprofessional experience may be substituted for the bachelor’s degree on a year-for-year basis.
• 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.
• Outstanding customer service skills.
• Demonstrated commitment and leadership ability to advance diversity and inclusion.
• Knowledge of basic human anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology.
• Ability to interpret and master complex research protocol information.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree in biomedical engineering, chemical engineering or related field
• Two (2) years of experience in an experimental or wet laboratory
• Cell culture experience
• Nanoparticle formation experience
• Polymer synthesis
• Training in molecular techniques with a good theoretical understanding and experience in interpretation of results
• Experience laboratory animal management and handling
• Laboratory management skills

Responsibilities

• Nanoparticle fabrication
• Polymer synthesis and biomaterial fabrication
• Engineering in vitro models
• Heart transplant readouts will include flow cytometry, histology, cytotoxicity assays, and immunofluorescence.
• Collaborate with and support Principal Investigators (PI) and other stakeholders with laboratory and research functions
• Utilize a variety of laboratory techniques required for research projects
• Perform experiments and tabulate and analyze research
• Support analytical testing process using standard lab support knowledge in the collection and review of conditions, including preserving samples, completing sample preparation, documenting and communicating results
• Perform pre-analytical, analytical and post analytical test process and evaluate results produced
• Prepare lab for daily operations, including stocking materials, equipment, safety, cleanliness, and related areas
• Provide animal care related to research studies, as necessary
• Pick up, transport, and maintain results, samples, documents, materials and other items as needed
• Dispose of laboratory materials and samples using well established guidelines and instructions
• Review, complete and process logs, documents, databases, and related materials and information
• Provide support researching issues and developing recommendations to resolve process, unit and related issues
• Assist in the review and implementation of lab support policies, practices and programs to meet organizational, operations and management needs
• Assist with ensuring compliance with applicable laws, rules and regulations; receive guidance and direction or escalate when required
• Assist with reagent inventory and ordering
• Assist with manuscript preparation, editing, and submission
• Submit research abstracts for presentation at national conferences
• Clear, concise note taking and recording of data (5%25)
• Reagent preparation (5%25)
• Lab meeting; 1:1 meeting prep (10%25)
• Manuscript preparation (10%25)
• Laboratory supply ordering and invoice tracking (10%25)
• Biomechanical analysis of samples (10%25)
• Histology/Immunofluorescence (15%25)
• Nanoparticle fabrication
• Biomaterial synthesis and fabrication
• Electrospinning
• ex vivo murine model work, including dissections, and termination procedures (35%25)
• Biomaterial synthesis
• Nanoparticle fabrication using standard laboratory practices
• Add with biomaterials and nanoparticle characterization
• Assessment of biomechanical properties of cells, tissues and biomaterials using atomic force microscopy and other biomechanical techniques
• Engineering of in vitro models (3D models, engineered heart tissues, cardiac spheroids, organoids)
• Learn downstream readouts including flow cytometry, histology preparation and interpretation.
• Be willing to learn side by side with PI as we conduct translational heart transplantation research.

Benefits

• health insurance
• life insurance
• retirement plans
• tuition benefits
• ECO pass
• paid time off – vacation, sick, holidays

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level