Research Services Professional

University of Colorado•Aurora, CO

21h•Onsite

About The Position

As an integral member of our research team, the Research Services Professional will contribute to cutting-edge research in Total Human Eye-Allotransplantation Innovation Advancement (THEIA) at the University of Colorado Anschutz in Aurora, CO with the Division of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. This project aims to advance the field of whole-eye transplantation, exploring innovative surgical techniques, immune rejection mechanisms, and neuroregeneration strategies. This position offers an excellent opportunity for candidates seeking hands-on laboratory experience, publication opportunities, and preparation for admission to top-tier graduate or medical programs. The Research Services Professional will be actively involved in experimental procedures, animal handling, data analysis, and manuscript preparation, gaining valuable skills in translational research.

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.
One (1) year professional level research experience (for Intermediate level).
Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, genetics, or related field.
One (1) to three (3) years of experience in an experimental or wet laboratory
Provide general laboratory support, including ordering and maintaining consumables.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date laboratory book records.
Detailed documentation of experiments and results.
Experience with biology, molecular biology and/or immunological assays.

Responsibilities

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
Independently and creatively identify laboratory solutions
Independently Review, develop and implement new or modified laboratory techniques required for research projects
Assist Team Leads, Supervisors and/or management with creation and implementation of processes and procedures and quality improvement initiatives
Assist and train junior team members
Perform benchwork techniques, including ELISA, qPCR, Western Blot (WB), and Flow Cytometry, to support various research projects.
Conduct tissue staining, microscopy, and other histological analyses.
Collect, enter, and analyze experimental data to generate meaningful research insights.
Perform rat handling, daily inspection, and pre-/post-surgery care.
Prepare and process rat samples, including blood and tissue collection.
Conduct ocular examinations, including: Flash electroretinography (fERG) and Pattern electroretinography (pERG) to assess retinal function.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) for retinal imaging and structural analysis.
Collaborate with the principal investigator and research team to review literature and refine experimental protocols.
Document lab results, assist in manuscript preparation, and create visual data representations (graphs, charts) for publication in scientific journals.
Maintain accurate lab records and update research protocols.
Oversee lab inventory, ordering of supplies, and general lab maintenance.
Ensure compliance with safety regulations and laboratory best practices.