Research Instructor – Regenerative Medicine Laboratory Director

Job Summary:

The Department of Orthopedics is seeking an experienced translational researcher to join the lab under Dr. Jason L. Dragoo, MD, Principal Investigator and Michael Zuscik, PhD.  The ideal candidate will be able to work independently under the direction of the PI and will be responsible for creating and modifying research protocols to investigate new methods of biologic treatment using cellular therapeutics, growth factors and other autologous blood products to improve the body’s ability to heal musculoskeletal injury including articular cartilage and osteoarthritis. 

The candidate will produce original data and oversee the production of data from others that are under their supervision. This will include the production of the data into publishable manuscripts and into other forms that would allow the submission of preliminary data for grant funding. The candidate would work with the members of clinical trials team within the group to help establish standard operating procedures (SOPs), direct the basic science portions of ongoing clinical trials within the group, and collaborate on new ideas and projects that could result in further sponsored research.  An ideal candidate would have previously demonstrated experience with federal and non-federal funding processes.  

Key Responsibilities:

• Planning and performing laboratory experiments with tissue harvested from surgery including blood products, chondrocytes, synoviocytes and osteoblasts (both primary and clonal lines).
• Performing various assays including Western and Northern blots, real-time qPCR, flow cytometry, ELISAs, multiplex assays (e.g. Luminex), single cell RNA analysis, mass and cell cytometry, histological staining/immunostaining, and imaging and data analysis.
• Oversee all lab activities, including ordering of supplies and record keeping.
• Assist in vetting and implementing a laboratory information management system (Agilent SLIMS or similar)
• Development of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for Collection, Quality Assessment, and Quality Control of samples for a biobank.
• Management of rodent and other animal colonies as needed.
• Performance of surgical procedures in animal models of cartilage or joint injury/repair.
• Supervision of 1-3 Research Professionals in the Dragoo lab.

Work Location:

Onsite - this role is expected to primarily work onsite at the Steadman Hawkins/Inverness Center and on the Anschutz Medical campus.  Remote work is possible as determined by the PI.  

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 and postdoctoral experience in a biological sciences field
• Evidence of publication and presentation track record from work on previous projects
• Experience in stem cell or cellular biology and/or orthopedic research 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bioinformatics experience in the analysis of RNAseq data.
• Familiarity with tendon progenitor cell (TPC) lines from normal and diseased tissues and biomechanical testing methodologies.
• Previous experience with Luminex assay techniques and equipment..
• Experience in identifying appropriate opportunities for funding and familiarity with the application processes of federal and non-federal funding sources. 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Interest in targeted development of new therapies for orthopedic diseases.
• Interest in developing a career trajectory leading to academic independence.
• Evidence of writing ability based on publication track record.
• Skills in interpersonal communication and personnel management
• Troubleshooting and problem-solving skills in bench science (in vitro, in vivo)
• Decision making ability in experimental design and execution.
• Grant and manuscript writing skills. 

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-five professional references including name, address, phone number (mobile number if appropriate), and email address

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 continue until position is filled. For best consideration, apply by April 30, 2024. 

Anticipated Pay Range:

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

$70,000 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 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 .