Research Assistant Professor

Job Summary:

The Department of Orthopedics at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus (AMC) in Aurora, Colorado is seeking a Research Assistant Professor to assist in collaboratively managing a federally funded research program related to musculoskeletal regenerative medicine. The individual will work with the Principal Investigators (PIs) to plan and manage all in vitro and in vivo experiments needed to reach the project milestones. The individual will be the primary driver of the development and execution of animal studies performed to assess novel therapeutics for bone and cartilage regeneration. This position will also include oversight of human and animal primary cell isolations from bone and articular cartilage. This individual will work closely with the PIs to manage the research program and be a key player in its success.  

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage all animal studies of a non-invasive and surgically induced osteoarthritis animal model. This includes IACUC protocol submission, study planning, and performing all animal procedures.
• Oversee histological staining procedures of animal models, and imaging, and be responsible for data analysis and reporting
• Oversee the isolation of primary cells from human tissues collected from various orthopedic procedures and animal studies.
• Supervision/mentoring of research assistants that will work on the project.
• Attending weekly team meetings to present updates on data and project timeline.
• Assist in the completion of reports to the sponsor.
• Participate in the education of medical students, graduate students, orthopedic residents, clinical fellows, and postdoctoral trainees via formal training programs in the Department, the Colorado Program for Musculoskeletal Research (CPMR), and in the School of Medicine
• Contribute to fostering a culture of teamwork and accountability in the Department of Orthopedics and the CPMR 

Work Location:

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

Why Join Us:

The Department of Orthopedics’ mission is to provide the highest quality patient care and advance the field of orthopedics through innovation in research and education.  We place a high level of importance on achieving and maintaining a diverse environment that fosters excellence and rewarding opportunities.  The Research Division in the Department of Orthopedics is comprised of a core group of orthopedic faculty pursuing cutting-edge basic, translational, and clinical study of the musculoskeletal system.  Our research encompasses a broad array of focus areas: genetics of osteoporosis & scoliosis, bone biology, arthritis & joint biology, skeletal healing from the spine to limbs, stem cell biology & tissue engineering, growth plate injury & repair, brain injury-skeleton connections, and orthopedic pain management.   We partner with an array of musculoskeletal investigators in various clinical and basic science departments across the 4 campuses of the CU system.  Working in our group, you will benefit from a highly collaborative environment with numerous opportunities for career development.  

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.
 

• PhD degree in biomedical engineering, mechanical engineering or a biological sciences field, or an MD degree
• Experience with non-invasive mechanical load induced animal models of osteoarthritis
• At least 2 years of postdoctoral experience post-completion of the terminal degree
• Evidence of publication and presentation track record from work on previous projects 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Track record of research in musculoskeletal biology
• Experience developing animal models of osteoarthritis and testing biological and engineering-based approaches to enhance bone and cartilage regeneration.
• Experience managing projects and timelines.
• Grant and report writing experience and willingness to contribute to grant writing as part of an investigative team. 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Interest in musculoskeletal regenerative medicine
• Organizational skills, knowledge base, independence and leadership skills to support managing projects.
• Communication skills and evidence of writing ability based on publication track record.
• Troubleshooting and problem-solving skills in bench science (in vitro, in vivo)
• Comfortable working as part of a multidisciplinary team   

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: Lindsey Renn – [email protected]  

Screening of Applications Begins:

Immediately and continues until position is filled. For best consideration, apply by February 1, 2024.

Anticipated Pay Range:

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

$90,000 to $100,000 

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 .