Research Scientist

University of Colorado•Aurora, CO

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Burger Laboratory (PI: Alexa Burger, PhD) in the Department of Orthopedics is seeking to fill the position of a research scientist. The lab is a cutting-edge research wet lab at the Anschutz Medical Campus in Colorado with high-profile output, a lively lab atmosphere, and high-quality trainee mentoring. They have numerous opportunities for collaborative, interdisciplinary research projects and access to the latest animal facilities and imaging setups. The lab's research interests include early vertebrate development of the axial and lateral plate mesoderm using zebrafish and mice as models, associated structural birth defects (spina bifida, heart/blood/bone/kidney defects), and the development of the axial mesoderm into intervertebral discs, including underlying molecular mechanisms and intervertebral disc disease (IVD degeneration). The research scientist is expected to lead several ongoing research projects, including experimental design, data generation, data interpretation, and manuscript writing, with a proven track record of publications in these areas.

Requirements

PhD in Molecular Biology, Developmental Biology, Genetics, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Cancer Biology, or related field required.
At least one year of research experience in one or more of the following areas: intervertebral disc disease; aging; musculoskeletal biology; molecular biology.
Experience working in pre-clinical animal models required.
Microscopy skills required.
A strong publication record is required, including first authorship publications from previous research.

Nice To Haves

Experience with in vivo small molecule/drug applications.
Bioinformatics and/or programming expertise in languages such as R and Python.
Solid understanding of common cellular and molecular mechanisms, early vertebrate development, musculoskeletal biology, skeletal physiology, genetics, associated spine and IVD diseases, e.g. structural birth defects, aging, and IVDD.
Excellent knowledge of common molecular biology techniques.
Excellent organizational and record-keeping skills.
Computer skills in both Mac and PC environments, including use of standard programs, e.g. Word and Excel, as well as imaging programs and online interfaces.
Ability to interpret and master complex research protocol information.
Ability to work both in a team environment and independently.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees at all levels throughout the institution.
Ability to demonstrate commitment and leadership to advance the lab’s research in the respective fields.

Responsibilities

Conducting molecular biology experiments, such as PCR, gateway cloning, restriction digest and T4 ligation, Sanger sequencing of PCR products/plasmid vectors, CRISPR guide RNA generation, Western blotting, RNA and genomic DNA collection from mouse tissue for RNAseq and ATACseq experiments, mouse tissue embedding and sectioning, immunohistochemistry/fluorescence, and imaging.
Mouse colony management, including breeding strategy, genotyping, experimental cohort generation, and tissue collection for molecular and histological analyses.
Analysis and dissemination of results related to ongoing and new projects within the laboratory.
Figure preparation, manuscript development and publication.
Presentation of research findings at internal meetings, national and international scientific conferences or workshops.
Overseeing training and professional development of junior lab members.
Managing internal and external collaborations with key stakeholders.
Development of competitive applications for extramural grant funds.
Development of new projects related to aging, musculoskeletal biology, and chromatin regulation.
Implementation of lab initiatives/new research directions with the lab director.