Post-Doctoral Fellow

Job Summary:

CellSight, the Ocular Stem Cell and Regeneration Program at the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, seeks one full-time (1.O FTE) Postdoctoral Fellow to carry out research in the areas of retinal biology, stem cell technologies, and regenerative medicine. CellSight is a cross-disciplinary team of investigators working in a highly collaborative environment with the common goal of developing novel stem cell-based therapeutics to treat ocular diseases. For more information about research performed by CellSight teams please visit: https://medschool.cuanschutz.edu/ophthalmology/research/cellsight-program

The successful candidate will be involved in a research project aimed at establishing an innovative regenerative strategy to treat retinal degenerative diseases. This is an exciting, new line of work using cutting-edge technology in the stem cell field and we are looking for a motivated and independent scientist willing to contribute with expertise and knowledge. There is no direct patient care or contact involved in this position. Main responsibilities include developing and carrying out research projects using stem cell culture and retinal organoid tissues along with cell, developmental and molecular biology techniques. Duties include publishing and communicating research results in both oral and written formats and assisting with the training and mentoring of students and technicians.

Key Responsibilities:

• Designing and planning research studies
• Performing experiments using human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) cultures, retinal organoid tissues, and other molecular, developmental and cell biology techniques as needed
• Analyzing and interpreting research results.
• Maintaining effective communication with the investigator and other team members
• Keeping an organized record of research experiments and results
• Assisting in the training and mentoring of students and technicians
• Preparing manuscripts for publication in scientific journals
• Participating in lab meetings and attending scientific seminars and conferences

Work Location:

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

Why Join Us:

The Department of Ophthalmology is housed in the Sue Anschutz-Rodgers Eye Center on the Anschutz Medical Campus. This state-of-the-art facility is one of the largest eye centers in the country and serves not only patients in the Rocky Mountain region but also patients all over the world.

The technological innovations conceived and developed by departmental faculty have changed the practice of eye care throughout the world. Our educational programs train the next generation of leaders in ophthalmology. Our specialists have developed national and international reputations for excellence in routine and complex ophthalmic care. We have invested heavily in tracking our clinical outcomes and we are proud that our clinicians perform at the highest levels in their respective fields.

The mission of the Department of Ophthalmology is to be a nationally recognized department of ophthalmology by providing exemplary patient care founded on educational leadership, innovative research, and high ethical standards.  

The University of Colorado offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, life insurance, retirement plans, tuition benefits, ECO pass, paid time off – vacation, sick, and holidays and more. To see what benefits are available, please visit: https://www.cu.edu/employee-services/benefits-wellness .

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, ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, persons within the LGBTQ+ community and all veterans. The University of Colorado is committed to diversity and equality in education and employment.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:
Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a MD/PhD or PhD in a relevant biomedical science discipline 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience in working with hydrogel platforms for cell delivery
• Previous experience in assessing cell response to hydrogel encapsulation
• Experience with stem cell culture techniques, 3D organoid differentiation
• Experience with cell, developmental, and molecular biology techniques
• Previous experience in vision science research
• A strong publishing record 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Excellent communication skills using the English language.
• Able to troubleshoot, design experiments, and collaborate amongst peers.
• Ability to follow and maintain protocols when handling hazardous materials.
• Able to work independently within a large collaborative environment.  

How to Apply:

For full consideration, please submit the following document(s):

Applications are accepted electronically ONLY at www.cu.edu/cu-careers .

Questions should be directed to: Ashley Woodhouse [email protected]

Screening of Applications Begins:

Immediately and continues until 04/08/2024.  

Anticipated Pay Range:

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

$56,484

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 is not eligible for overtime compensation unless it is non-exempt.

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 [email protected] ​.

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 .