Laboratory Sciences Professional (Open Rank: Entry, Intermediate, Senior)

Job Summary:

This full-time position is located in Research Complex I South on the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora CO, under the supervision of Dr. Sana Karam. This professional will perform the duties of a Laboratory Sciences Research Services Professional as listed below at the Small-Animal Image-Guided Radiotherapy University of Colorado Cancer Center (UCCC) Core. 

Examples of Duties Performed

• Collaborate with and support Principal Investigators (PI) and other stakeholders with laboratory and research functions
• Utilize a variety of laboratory techniques required for research projects
• Perform experiments and tabulate and analyze research
• Support analytical testing process using standard lab support knowledge in the collection and review of conditions, including preserving samples, completing sample preparation, documenting and communicating results
• Perform pre-analytical, analytical and post analytical test process and evaluate results produced
• Prepare lab for daily operations, including stocking materials, equipment, safety, cleanliness, and related areas
• Provide animal care related to research studies, as necessary
• Pick up, transport, and maintain results, samples, documents, materials and other items as needed
• Dispose of laboratory materials and samples using well established guidelines and instructions
• Review, complete and process logs, documents, databases, and related materials and information
• Provide support researching issues and developing recommendations to resolve process, unit and related issues
• Assist in the review and implementation of lab support policies, practices and programs to meet organizational, operations and management needs
• Assist with ensuring compliance with applicable laws, rules and regulations; receive guidance and direction or escalate when required
• Assist Team Leads, Supervisors and/or management with creation and implementation of processes and procedures and quality improvement initiatives
• Assist junior team members

At the Intermediate level:

• Assist and train junior team members
• 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
• Serve as a resource to PIs and other stakeholders

Senior level:

• Independently and creatively identify laboratory solutions
• Independently review, develop and implement new or modified laboratory techniques required for research project.
• 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

Additional Duties & Responsibilities:

• Accommodate all small animal irradiator users’ needs such as:
  • scheduling imaging/irradiation studies
  • performing imaging acquisition and radiation treatments according to the established SOPs
  • performing animal anesthesia and animal handling during imaging/ irradiation studies according to the established protocols
  • developing and performing routine quality control and services to our imaging and irradiation equipment
  • individualized training sessions for our users
  • involvement in image and data analysis
  • irradiation protocol development
• Operate as a small animal irradiation technician by coordinating all UCCC Core activities including iLab scheduling, invoicing, reporting, and promoting Core services.
• Updating all SOPs for animal imaging and irradiation during imaging procedures.
• Routine maintenance of X-Rad SmART image-guided irradiator
• Use X-Rad SmART Plan software to create radiation treatment plans
• Helping in preparation and submission IACUC protocols related to animal radiation for different investigators’ teams.
• Communicate with research personnel regarding technical issues during image acquisition/irradiation.
• Ensure appropriate documentation of all anesthetics and controlled substances.
• Train and supervise students in laboratory SOPs.
• Navigate issues related to X-Rad software
• 3D model and create parts compatible for use with X-Rad SmART irradiator
• Write and understand code to analyze data obtained from X-Rad SmART irradiator

This description is a summary only and is describing the general level of work being performed, it is not intended to be all-inclusive. The duties of this position change from time to time and/or based on business need. We reserve the right to add or delete duties and responsibilities at the discretion of the supervisor and/or hiring authority.

Work Location:

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

Why Join Us:

The University of Colorado Cancer Center stands at the forefront of cancer research and patient care in Colorado. As the state's only National Cancer Institute (NCI) designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, we hold a prestigious distinction that acknowledges our exceptional contributions to the fields of research, clinical trials, prevention, and cancer control. Our guiding vision is clear: "prevent and conquer cancer. Together." At the heart of our mission is the work to “unite our community to overcome cancer through innovation, discovery, prevention, early detection, multidisciplinary care, and education.”

Our more than 300 members, made up of renowned physicians and researchers, conduct patient-centered research to develop innovative, state-of-the-art technologies, and treatments. Crucial to this work is the nearly 300 staff members who help expand the reach of the CU Cancer Center. Our expertise across cancer types helps us provide world-class treatment for common cancers, while offering hope for many patients with difficult or aggressive cancers who have struggled to find treatment options elsewhere. 

Diversity and Equity:

At the CU Cancer Center we deem diversity in thought, perspective, lived experiences, and backgrounds to be essential for understanding and providing world-class health and cancer care to our diverse patient populations. We actively encourage individuals of all races, religions, national origins, genders, gender expressions, sexual orientations, ages, as well as veterans and individuals with disabilities to apply for positions in our center.  

If you need an accommodation in accordance with the Americans with Disability Act throughout the application process, please contact our Human Resources ADA Coordinator at [email protected]

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications

Entry Level:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, physics or related field

Intermediate Level:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, physics or related field
• One year of professional level research in an experimental/wet lab conducting relevant assays and experiments

Senior Level:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, physics or related field
• Two (2) years professional level research in an experimental/wet lab conducting relevant assays and experiments

A combination of education and related technical/paraprofessional experience may be substituted for the bachelor’s degree on a year for year basis 

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, physics or related field
• Two (2) years of experience in an experimental or wet laboratory
• Prior experience in UCCC Core management
• Prior experience with X-ray equipment and related software
• Prior experience with animal imaging or irradiation
• Knowledge of X-ray physics, basic radiobiology, and basic cancer biology.
• Knowledge of at least one programming language, preferably Python or R.
• Knowledge of animal handling techniques and safety procedures.

Competencies, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Proficient 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 and mouse anatomy, physiology medical terminology
• Excellent time management and organizational skills
• Ability to interpret and master complex research protocol information.
• Must have advanced computer literacy, including use of Microsoft Office Suite, as well as an image editing software such as Adobe Photoshop or GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of application.

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: [email protected]

Screening of Applications Begins:

Applications will be accepted until finalists are identified, but preference will be given to complete applications received by March 7, 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: $42,088-$53,536

Intermediate: $45,801-$58,259

Senior: $49,515-$62,983

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 [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 .