Laboratory Science Professional

Job Summary:

Dr. Alon Poleg-Polsky’s Computational Neuroscience Lab is recruiting a Research Services Entry Professional. Entry level Laboratory Science Professionals perform duties in an experimental lab, or wet lab, and handle a variety of chemicals and/or potential “wet” hazards. Entry-level Laboratory Science Professionals perform duties in laboratories where chemicals, drugs, or other materials or biological matters are tested and analyzed. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Conducting experiments as specified by the principal investigator (PI). Experimental techniques will include:
  • In-vivo assessment of visual function with electroretinogram (ERG).
  • In-vitro patch-clamp electrophysiology.
  • Two-photon calcium imaging.
  • In-vivo transpupillary calcium imaging.
  • Histology and multiplex in-situ hybridization.
• Extract and analyze experimental data using coding languages and large database querying applications.
• Managing lab procurement activities (ordering lab supplies, retaining receipts for processing, etc.).
• Participate in lab meetings for preparing experiments, sharing findings, and providing feedback.
• Prepare and review research protocols.

Work Location:

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

Why Join Us:

Dr. Alon Poleg-Polsky’s lab is part of the Department of Physiology and Biophysics at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus School of Medicine, which is known for its highly collaborative environment with many opportunities to interact with other sensory systems and computational neuroscience groups. Our lab studies the computational aspects of brain function using the retina as a model system. The role of the retina is to convert the vast amount of information present in the visual scene to a meaningful signal that can be decoded by downstream regions. In the lab, we interleave multi-compartmental modeling (NEURON simulation platform), electrophysiology (extracellular single-cell recording and intracellular patch-clamp), and functional imaging with two-photon microscopy of light-evoked neuronal responses. Our goals are to understand information processing within neural networks vs. models of traumatic brain injury and degenerative neurological conditions. 

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:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, 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.

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, genetics, or related field.
• Prior experience or background within an experimental or wet lab.
• Experience with Electrophysiology and/or Imaging.
• Experience in Histological techniques.
• Experience in Neurological Modeling.
• Experience with Python, MatLab, or similar coding languages. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of basic 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, medical terminology.
• Ability to interpret and master complex research protocol information.

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: Avery Williamson, [email protected]  

Screening of Applications Begins:

Screening of applications begins immediately and continues until position is filled. For best consideration, apply by November 1st , 2023.

Anticipated Pay Range:

The starting salary range (or hiring range ) for this position has been established as $42,088 – $53,536.

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 .