Research Associate

University of Colorado•Aurora, CO

17d•Onsite

About The Position

The Research Associate will work in the Lina Lab, a clinically driven translational research laboratory in the University of Colorado Anschutz Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery. The lab investigates therapeutics, biomaterials, and diagnostic tools related to laryngotracheal stenosis, airway obstruction, and laryngeal scar. It uses patient-derived clinical samples and in vivo surgical models to study airway injury and wound healing and develop tissue-engineering strategies with clinical applications. Under the general supervision of a faculty investigator, the associate independently performs routine laboratory experiments and contributes to the maintenance of laboratory equipment, supplies, and animal colonies. The work calls for an advanced understanding of immunological methods and immunohistochemistry, experimental design, basic statistical methods, and techniques gained through prior training and experience. Experiments may include tissue culture, PCR, immunohistochemical staining, and small-animal husbandry. The position is onsite in Aurora, Colorado. Professional development opportunities include tailored career development, 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, and basic statistical methods.
Excellent organizational and time-management skills, including the ability to multitask, set work priorities, and handle multiple deadlines.
Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information and maintain strict confidentiality in HIPAA matters.
Effective written and oral communication across diverse academic and healthcare populations.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees at all levels and to work independently as well as part of 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

Use in vivo animal models in experiments; follow protocols, monitor animal safety and health in accordance with USDA and AALAC guidelines, administer anesthesia, and sacrifice and dissect animals as required.
Prepare tissue for study using biochemical and histochemical techniques.
Operate laboratory equipment, including centrifuges, analytical balances, incubators, spectrophotometers, flow cytometers, microscopes, and laminar flow hoods, as applicable.
Maintain accurate, up-to-date records of experiments and data; use laboratory computers for data entry and become familiar with the computer ordering system.
Prepare the laboratory for daily operations, including stocking materials and maintaining equipment, safety, and cleanliness.
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 the mouse census and care for animals according to protocols.

Benefits

Medical insurance with multiple plan options.
Dental insurance with multiple plan options.
Disability insurance.
Life insurance.
Vision insurance.
Employer contributions of 10% of gross pay to the 401(a) retirement plan.
Paid time off accruals based on percentage of time.
22 vacation days per year, with a maximum accrual of 352 hours.
15 sick days per year, with unlimited maximum accrual.
11 holiday days.
Tuition benefit available on all CU campuses.
Reduced-rate ECO Pass for RTD bus and light rail service.
Funding for annual attendance and presentation at a national conference.
Tailored professional development, mentoring opportunities with graduate students, and opportunities to engage with clinicians.