Principal Laboratory Sciences Professional - Pediatric Cancer Research

Job Summary:

This position is oriented towards an inquisitive and enthusiastic individual to join the Fry Laboratory in a federally funded position. We focus on laboratory-based translational research in pediatric cancer immunotherapy and CAR T-cell development. The individual will be responsible for performing and optimizing a broad array of common laboratory assays such as cell culture, molecular biology (cloning, PCR, DNA/RNA extraction), in vitro cytotoxicity assays, viral production, transduction, flow cytometry, and ELISAs. This position will also include administrative tasks for the lab such as ordering, inventory, scheduling equipment service and repairs, and monitoring lab finances. The position is full time. 

The position offers a unique opportunity to work with leading investigators in the field of CAR T-cell development for pediatric leukemia, in a multidisciplinary research environment that features a robust research infrastructure in basic and translational research, including laboratory professionals and trainees working in immunology and clinical oncology. This position is expected to provide scientific and administrative oversight in the day-to-day operations of the lab.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform the development, optimization, validation, and writing of research protocols.
• Prepare lab for daily operations, including ordering and stocking materials, maintaining and monitoring lab inventory, maintaining equipment and scheduling service/repairs, contributing to lab cleanliness and safety.
• Perform experiments related to cellular immunotherapy of leukemia and solid tumors including but not limited to:
  • Maintaining leukemia and solid tumor cell lines in culture.
  • Generating lentiviral and gammaretroviral vectors and performing in vitro transduction.
  • Isolation, expansion, activation, and genetic modification of human and murine T cells in culture.
  • Molecular biology techniques including but not limited to: PCR, cloning, and nucleic acid purification.
  • Multiparameter flow cytometry and panel design.
  • In vitro cytotoxicity assays.
  • In vivo treatment models in human xenograft and fully syngeneic mouse models (depending on the candidate’s willingness to work with mice).
• Collaboration with PI, other PRAs, post-doctoral fellows, and graduate students.
• Maintaining accurate documentation in a laboratory notebook.
• Collecting, recording, analyzing, and presenting data.
• Assist faculty with development and writing of manuscripts and presentations.

Work Location:

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

Why Join Us:

The Metro Denver region has nearly 300 days of annual sunshine, with mountains and outdoor recreation located nearby. The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus ranks consistently among the top 30 medical schools in the country, with the Department of Pediatrics ranking consistently in the top 10 (U.S. News and World Report 2022 rankings). 

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:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, genetics, or related field.
  • Substitution: A combination of education and related technical/paraprofessional experience may be substituted for the bachelor’s degree on a year for year basis
• Three (3) years professional level research experience in molecular biology, cell culture, immunology, and/or cancer biology.

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

Condition of Employment:

• Must successfully pass a drug test through Children’s Hospital Colorado.
• Must be willing and able to pass a national criminal background check.

*For questions regarding Children’s Hospital drug testing requirements, please contact Children’s Human Resources at 720-777-8598. Some positions may require testing if access to Children’s Hospital or their systems is needed at any time during employment with the University. If drug testing is required, it will be listed in the job posting.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, genetics, or related field.
• Four to seven (4-7) years of experience or background within an experimental or wet lab (e.g., cell culture, rodent models, molecular biology techniques, immunology, cancer biology, and/or flow cytometry).
• Previous full-time employment in an academic research lab (2 or more years).
• Previous full-time employment as a lab manager (1 or more years).
• Master’s degree in biology, molecular biology, genetics, or related field.
• Experience and/or willingness to work with animal models (mouse).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Expert knowledge of laboratory techniques including safety procedures and techniques.
• Expert ability to analyze and solve complex problems.
• Ability to keep detailed records and 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, and medical terminology.
• Ability to interpret and master complex research protocol information.
• Ability to function independently but exercise sound judgment in seeking appropriate supervision.
• Ability to independently organize and maintain laboratory stocks and supplies, order, and maintain several laboratory projects simultaneously.
• Ability to troubleshoot laboratory protocols for yourself and others.
• Knowledge of molecular biology, cell culture, cancer biology, and/or immunology.
• Knowledgeable of Microsoft Office programs and ability to conduct fundamental statistical analysis.
• Comply with all standard operating procedures and quality control systems per the University of Colorado policy.
• Comply with any laboratory duties assigned by the PI.

How to Apply:

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

Questions should be directed to: Paul Lopez, [email protected]

Screening of Applications Begins:

Screening begins immediately and continues until position is filled.

Anticipated Pay Range:

The hiring range for this position has been established as $56,942 to $72,430.

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 .