Research Services Laboratory Sciences Professional (Open Rank: Entry, Intermediate or Senior) .5 - 1.0FTE

Job Summary:

The person in this position will be offered a unique and exciting opportunity to work with a team of neurologists, pathologists, and neurosurgeons on modern and ground-breaking projects. The lab is focused on finding new treatments and early biomarkers for individuals with Down syndrome, Alzheimer's disease, Traumatic Brain Injuries, or Parkinson's disease. Dr. Granholm has collaborations both within CU Anschutz but also with other Universities in the USA and Europe. The applicant will work with human brain tissue, human plasma samples and sometimes mice to explore these conditions in a translational manner.

• The applicant will be in charge of a biobank with several sites in the USA and Europe. The role here will be to dissect tissues for spatial transcriptomics, immunohistochemistry, and exosome extraction and perform experiments together with other scientists at CU in 3 different departments. There is an opportunity to learn human neuroanatomy.
• This is an opportunity to learn new techniques including spatial transcriptomics and advanced imaging techniques.
• The Department of Neurosurgery encompasses several research groups with blended methods and research focus and applications close to the clinic. The day to day work includes working with Pathology Department when there is an autopsy to dissect brain tissue, procure tissues for biochemical or morphological studies, and collecting and analyzing blood samples from participants with concussions.
• The applicant will function as a lab manager and will have the opportunity to participate in publications as a co-author and in conferences. The job entails ordering supplies, shipping and receiving samples from collaborative labs, and communicating with other labs at CU and other universities.
• The focus in the lab is on neurodegenerative disorders, and the projects include studying cell replacement therapy in patients with Parkinson's disease, finding early biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease and Down syndrome, and developing new spatial omics techniques together with the Genomics Core at CU.

All levels:

• Utilize a variety of laboratory techniques required for research projects.
• Prepare human brain for dissection and brain tissue slices for histological processing.
• Routinely conduct assays using molecular and biochemistry techniques such as immunohistochemistry, ELISA, and Western Blots.
• Support the analytical testing process using standard lab support knowledge in the collection and review of conditions, including preserving samples, completing sample preparation.
• Prepare lab for daily operations, including stocking materials, equipment, safety, cleanliness, and related areas.
• Process and analyze blood samples for collaborative studies.
• Provide animal care related to research studies, as necessary.
• Dispose of laboratory materials and samples using well established guidelines and instructions and hazardous waste according to CU regulations.

Data management and data logs (20% effort):

• Review, complete and process logs, documents, databases, and related materials and information.
• Research lab-related procedural issues and developing recommendations to resolve process.
• Tabulate and analyze research data. Write data up for publications (co-authorship is available).
• Pick up, transport, and maintain results, samples, documents, materials and other items as needed.
• Document and communicate results.
• Ship brain tissue samples to other laboratories and receive samples from others.
• Maintain a database for human blood and brain tissues and a freezer inventory.

Compliance and research conferences and events (10%):

• Ensure compliance with applicable laws, rules and regulations; receive guidance and direction or escalate when required.
• Help with IACUC and IRB applications and keep records of CITI and Skillsoft training and procedures in a lab notebook.
• Review and implement lab support policies, practices and programs to meet organizational, operations and management needs.
• Collaborate with and support Principal Investigators (PI) and other stakeholders with laboratory and research functions.

Intermediate Level, includes all of the above and:

• 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

Senior Level, includes all of the above and:

• Assist with developing or develop protocol-specific systems and documents including process flows, training manuals, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Maintains subject level documentation and prepares documents, equipment and/or supplies
• Assist with identifying issues related to operational efficiency and shares results with leadership
• Provide laboratory science expertise and leadership in study design, study oversight, data management, data analysis and manuscript preparation to assist all levels of investigators, researchers and clinicians on new research activities across a wide range of disciplines
• Serve as a resource to PIs and other stakeholders

Work Location:

Onsite - this role is expected to work onsite and is located in Aurora, CO.

Why Join Us:

The Department of Neurosurgery is looking for a full- or part-time Professional Research Assistant to join Dr. Lotta Granholm's laboratory located at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora, CO.

This is an externally funded full- or part-time benefited position, which will assist faculty and staff to reach project goals. The applicant is expected to independently perform histopathology experiments, maintain meticulous laboratory records and communicate results and updates to laboratory staff. The Research Assistant will help with ordering and maintaining laboratory supplies and conduct independent experiments on neuropathology neurodegenerative disorders including sectioning and staining of fixed brain tissues and biochemical experiments including exosome isolation from human plasma and blood.

Neurosurgery at CU Anschutz is a dynamic, rapidly growing educational enterprise, and we are one of the largest Departments of Neurosurgery in the western United States. Currently the department encompasses four teaching institutions: University Hospital, Colorado Children's Hospital, Colorado VA Medical Center, and Denver Health, with all but the latter now located on the new 225-acre Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora, CO. The Anschutz Medical Campus is a truly state-of-the-art center for education, clinical programs, and research and innovation. Our current faculty includes 25 Neurosurgeons, three Neuro-Critical Care Intensivists, ever-growing division of Interventional Neuro-Radiologists, five Neuropsychologists, and eight full-time dedicated research PhDs. The Neurosurgery Department at CU Anschutz is a thriving research-centered department that promotes translational research at an international level. The research faculty in Neurosurgery are focused, welcoming, and inclusive and work with the community to inform about severe neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, cancer, and Alzheimer's disease.

The University of Colorado offers a comprehensive benefits package (see below). To see what benefits are available, please visit: https://www.cu.edu/employee-services/benefits-wellness.

Why work for the University?

We have AMAZING benefits and offer exceptional amounts of holiday, vacation and sick leave! The University of Colorado offers an excellent benefits package including:

• Medical: Multiple plan options
• Dental: Multiple plan options
• Additional Insurance: Disability, Life, Vision
• Retirement 401(a) Plan: Employer contributes 10% of your gross pay
• Paid Time Off: Accruals over the year
• Vacation Days: 22/year (maximum accrual 352 hours)
• Sick Days: 15/year (unlimited maximum accrual)
• Holiday Days: 10/year
• Tuition Benefit: Employees have access to this benefit on all CU campuses
• ECO RTD Pass: Reduced rate RTD Bus and light rail service

There are many additional perks & programs with the CU Advantage.

Diversity and Equity:

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is committed to recruiting and supporting a diverse student body, faculty and administrative staff. The university strives to promote a culture of inclusiveness, respect, communication and understanding. We encourage applications from women, ethnically minoritized individuals, persons with disabilities, persons within the LGBTQ+ community and all veterans. In addition, the Anschutz Campus has also been recognized as an Age-Friendly University. The University of Colorado is committed to diversity and equality in education and employment.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

Entry Level

• Bachelor's degree in biology, molecular biology, , cell biology, neuroscience including lab experience in these fields
  
  
  
  • A combination of education and related technical/paraprofessional experience may be substituted for the bachelor's degree on a year for year basis
  
  
  
  

Intermediate Level

• Bachelor's degree in biology, molecular biology, cell biology, neuroscience including lab experience in these fields
  
  
  
  • 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) years professional level research experience

Senior Level

• Bachelor's degree in biology, molecular biology, cell biology, neuroscience including lab experience in these fields
  
  
  
  • A combination of education and related technical/paraprofessional experience may be substituted for the bachelor's degree on a year for year basis
  
  
  
  
• Two (2) years professional level research experience

*Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

Preferred Qualifications:

Entry Level

• Master's degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, genetics or related field

Intermediate Level

• Master's degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, genetics or related field
• Two (2) years of experience in an experimental or wet laboratory

Senior Level

• Master's degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, genetics or related field
• Three (3) years of experience in an experimental or wet laboratory

Competencies, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Laboratory knowledge base
  
  
  
  • Entry level has basic knowledge of laboratory techniques including safety procedures and techniques
  • Intermediate level has proficient knowledge of laboratory techniques including safety procedures and techniques
  • Senior level has advanced knowledge of 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
• Demonstrated commitment and leadership ability to advance diversity and inclusion
• Knowledge of basic human anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology
• Ability to interpret and master complex research protocol information
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, including Excel and Word
• Attention to detail and meticulous record keeping skills
• Strong enthusiasm for science, with possibility to gain authorship on scientific manuscripts and present data at conferences

For full consideration, please submit the following documents:

1. A letter of interest describing relevant job experiences as they relate to listed job qualifications and interest in the position
2. Curriculum vitae/Resume
3. Three to five professional references, including name, address, phone number (mobile number if appropriate), and email address

Questions should be directed to: Sarah Williams, sarah.williams@cuanschutz.edu

Screening of Applications Begins:

Immediately and continue until position is filled. For best consideration, apply by 2/28/2025.

Anticipated Pay Range:

The starting salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established as

Hiring Range for 1.0 FTE

Entry Level: $45,000-$57,240

Intermediate Level: $48,970-$62,290

Senior Level: $52,941-$67,341

This position for .5 FTE

Entry Level: $22,500-$28,620

Intermediate Level: $24,485-$31,145

Senior Level: $52,941-$33,670.5

The above salary range (or hiring range) represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. This position may be eligible for overtime compensation, depending on the level.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Colorado provides generous leave, health plans and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Total Compensation Calculator: http://www.cu.edu/node/153125

ADA Statement:

The University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at hr.adacoordinator@cuanschutz.edu.

Background Check Statement:

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our faculty, staff, students and visitors. To assist in achieving that goal, we conduct background investigations for all prospective employees.

Vaccination Statement:

CU Anschutz strongly encourages vaccination against the COVID-19 virus and other vaccine preventable diseases. If you work, visit, or volunteer in healthcare facilities or clinics operated by our affiliated hospital or clinical partners or by CU Anschutz, you will be required to comply with the vaccination and medical surveillance policies of the facilities or clinics where you work, visit, or volunteer, respectively. In addition, if you work in certain research areas or perform certain safety sensitive job duties, you must enroll in the occupational health medical surveillance program.