Research Associate

University of Colorado•Aurora, CO

18d•$85,000 - $110,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Research Associate will work in the Lina Lab, a clinically driven translational research laboratory studying injury and wound healing in the larynx and trachea and developing tissue-engineering strategies to treat laryngotracheal stenosis and laryngeal scar. The lab uses patient-derived clinical samples and in vivo surgical models to investigate disease pathophysiology and develop treatment models with clinical applications. Under the general supervision of a faculty investigator, the position independently performs routine laboratory experiments and contributes to maintenance of the laboratory, equipment, supplies, and animal colonies. The work requires an advanced understanding of immunological methods, immunohistochemistry, experimental design, basic statistical methods, and laboratory techniques gained through prior training and experience. Experiments include tissue culture propagation, PCR, immunohistochemical staining of cells and tissue, and small-animal husbandry, including managing mouse census and care according to protocols. The role is onsite in Aurora, Colorado. The lab offers professional development tailored to academic and non-academic career paths, including funding for annual attendance and presentation at a national conference, mentoring opportunities with graduate students, and opportunities to engage with clinicians.

Requirements

PhD, or a graduate degree with extensive prior laboratory experience, in biomedical engineering, physiology, or a related biomedical sciences field.
Advanced understanding of immunological methods, immunohistochemistry, experimental design, basic statistical methods, and laboratory techniques gained through training and experience.
Excellent organizational and time-management skills, including the ability to multitask, set priorities, and manage multiple deadlines.
Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information and maintain strict confidentiality in HIPAA matters.
Effective written and oral communication skills across diverse academic and healthcare populations.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships across the institution and to work independently as well as in a team.
Ability to use various computer systems and software applications.

Nice To Haves

Strong expertise in immunohistochemistry, single-cell transcriptomics, airway physiology, and tissue engineering.
Demonstrated skills in data analysis and scientific writing.

Responsibilities

Conduct experiments using in vivo animal models, follow protocols, monitor animal safety and health in accordance with USDA and AALAC guidelines, administer anesthesia, sacrifice and dissect animals as required, and prepare tissue using biochemical and histochemical techniques.
Operate laboratory equipment, including centrifuges, analytical balances, incubators, spectrophotometers, flow cytometers, microscopes, and laminar flow hoods, as needed.
Maintain accurate, up-to-date records of experiments and data, enter data using laboratory computers, and become familiar with the computer ordering system.
Prepare the laboratory for daily operations by stocking materials and maintaining equipment, safety, cleanliness, and related areas.
Dispose of laboratory materials and samples according to established guidelines and instructions.
Review and implement laboratory support policies, practices, and programs to meet organizational, operational, and management needs.
Assist team leads, supervisors, and/or management with creating and implementing processes, procedures, and quality-improvement initiatives.
Independently review, develop, and implement new or modified laboratory techniques required for research projects.
Perform tissue culture propagation, PCR, immunohistochemical staining of cells and tissue, and small-animal husbandry; manage mouse census and care for animals according to protocols.