Laboratory Science Professional (Open Rank: Entry – Senior)

Job Summary:

This position is available in the Gnotobiotic Core Service Center in the Department of Immunology and Microbiology. The gnotobiotic mouse facility at CU Anschutz provides germ-free animals for highly regulated experimental manipulations to research microbial-host interactions. It consists of 12 large and 4 small isolators as well as 4 positive pressure ventilated racks and a capacity to house up to 1600 mice. The gnotobiotic core works with investigators from CU Anschutz and outside institutions to complete research projects in their respective fields. The primary responsibility in this position is to provide routine and specialized care for germ-free mice, which scientists use for biomedical research and education. The role requires preparation of the lab for daily operations and providing management of the laboratory animal colony. Occasionally, experimental protocols may require working in the evening or on weekends.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide animal care related to research studies, as necessary.
• Packaging food, bedding, and water for sterilization.
• Assembling experimental cages for sterilization.
• Running autoclave cycles.
• Weekly, monthly, and semi-annual room sanitization tasks, emptying trash, disposing of soiled cages and chemical waste.
• Animal cage changing in vinyl isolators and biosafety cabinets.
• Quality control testing via bacterial culture and PCR.
• Detailed record keeping of activities within the core.

Work Location:

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

Why Join Us:

The Department of Immunology and Microbiology encompasses a broad range of research and teaching activities focused on basic mechanisms of host immune responses, viral and bacterial pathogenesis, and the intersection of these two fields. Working in the Department of Immunology and Microbiology offers the opportunity of professional growth in a vibrant academic and scientific environment.

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, 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

Entry Level:

• 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.

Intermediate Level:

• 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 of professional-level research experience.

Senior Level:

• 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.
• Two (2) years of professional-level research experience.

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

Preferred Qualifications

• One (1) to three (3) years of experience in a basic science laboratory.
• Experience with laboratory management.
• Experience with animal breeding and handling, and care.
• Previous experience with flow cytometry, molecular biology/biochemistry.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of laboratory techniques including safety procedures.
• Demonstrated ability to be well-organized, reliable, independent, and possess considerable attention to detail. 
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees at all levels throughout the institution.
• Ability to interpret and master complex research protocol information.
• Proficiency with Excel spreadsheets.
• Ability to work independently and self-prioritize.

How to Apply:

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

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: Adrianne Lydick, [email protected]

Screening of Applications Begins:

Applications will be accepted until finalists are identified, but preference will be given to complete applications received by April 1st , 2024. Those who do not apply by this date may or may not be considered.

Anticipated Pay Range:

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

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

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

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

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 accommodation 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 .