Research Services Professional Entry Level

University of Colorado•Aurora, CO

4d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a Laboratory Sciences Research Services Professional (entry level) to join our supportive and collaborative team. The Colorado Lactation Labs in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Sciences are at the forefront of research in an important field of women’s health that supports health outcomes across generations. We study the main drivers of lactation failure and develop new strategies to expand research capabilities. We utilize multiple approaches, including primary samples from human subjects and preclinical models, to study the molecular and cellular biology of the mammary gland in a translationally relevant way. We are seeking to recruit an individual with familiarity in basic laboratory techniques, with a few pre-requisites: (1) Basic understanding of molecular biology; (2) Excellent verbal and written communication skills; (3) Excellent organizational skills; and (4) The ability to work well both independently and in collaboration with other members of the laboratory and with research study participants. Some laboratory research experience is preferred, but not required. In general, this will include prior experience in execution of experiments, tabulation and analysis of results, careful record-keeping with an electronic laboratory notebook, and performance of daily operations. This Research Professional’s primary responsibility will be to develop and implement new or modified laboratory techniques required for research projects (60%25) under the guidance of other laboratory members. This includes coordination of human subjects sample collection and sample processing, possible handling of live mice, and related regulatory training. Additional responsibilities include isolation of mammary epithelial components from mouse models, flow cytometry, immunohistochemical and immunofluorescent techniques, microscopy, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), RNA and protein isolation, qRT-PCR, western blotting and transcriptomic and proteomic approaches. Additionally, this individual will be responsible for administrative duties (40%25) including, but not limited to, maintaining meticulous record-keeping of experiments and laboratory operations, ordering and inventorying of supplies and reagents, and routine maintenance of laboratory equipment. This individual will coordinate meetings of our local lactation research network. They will also assist the Principal Investigator (PI) in management of laboratory finances and compliance with health and safety regulations. Finally, teaching and mentoring of other lab members or students is expected though this is not direct supervision. Please note that this position requires flexible work hours, including occasional early mornings, nights and weekends, as required for completion of study aims.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, genetics or related field
A combination of education and related technical/military/paraprofessional experience may be substituted for a bachelor’s degree on a year for year basis.
Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.
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
Knowledge of basic human anatomy, physiology medical terminology
Ability to interpret and master complex research protocol information

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, genetics or related field
Prior experience or background within an experimental or wet laboratory

Responsibilities

Preparation of lab reagents
Processing of human subjects samples for analysis
Use of a database to record supplies and inventory
Assistance with laboratory upkeep & maintenance
Data collection and analysis
Participation in lab meetings
Presentations at lab meetings and local conferences
Contributions to project development and help with manuscript preparation
Other research-related duties
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
Coordination of human subjects sample collection and study visits
Pick up, transport, and maintain samples, results, documents, materials and other items as needed
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 organization of meetings for local lactation researchers and professionals