Entry Laboratory Science Professional

Job Summary:

The Entry Laboratory Science Professional will collaborate with and support the Principal Investigator (PI), Dr. Geetha Bhagavatula, and other stakeholders with laboratory and research functions. Utilize a variety of laboratory techniques required for research projects. Perform experiments, 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, and documenting and communicating results.

Our lab focuses on understanding the factors that contribute to gastrointestinal disease in cystic fibrosis (CF), including intestinal barrier dysfunction and intestinal inflammation. We use relevant and innovative techniques, including the use of patient-derived intestinal organoids and genetically edited cell lines to model the CF intestine and study how relevant genetic, environmental, and therapeutic changes affect the function and structure of the intestinal epithelium. Our overall aim is to improve targeted treatment of intestinal manifestations of CF by understanding the mechanisms underlying these changes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the principal investigator's (PI) research and collaborate with other laboratory personnel by performing and troubleshooting various biochemical, cell culture, and animal experiments to garner data for research questions, specifically in the realm of intestinal epithelial biology. Techniques utilized include RNA and DNA isolation, PCR, quantitative PCR, Sanger sequencing, western blot, flow cytometry, immunofluorescent staining and microscopy, immortal cell line culture, intestinal organoid cell culture, gene editing, and mouse handling, including gavage, cardiac puncture, disease scoring, and sacrifice.

• Perform analytical tests on the results produced.

• Documentation of experiments and results in a lab notebook.

• Support global lab function and management by contributing to shared lab duties, including reagent procurement, performing inventory, stocking materials, maintaining equipment, keeping reagent safety logs, and maintaining cleanliness in lab areas.

• Attend weekly lab meetings and present at lab meetings twice per year.

• Meet with PI regularly for the purpose of project planning, research updates, and mentorship.

• Aid in the preparation of project reports and manuscripts for publication.

• 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 by researching issues and developing recommendations to resolve processes, units, and related issues.

• Review and implement lab support policies, practices, and programs to meet organizational, operational, and management needs.

• Ensure compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations; receive guidance and direction or escalate when required.

Work Location:

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

Why Join Us:

With an abundance of sunshine and mountains nearby, the Colorado Front Range is the place to be! The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus ranks among the top 20 medical centers in the country. CU Anschutz has top-ranked clinical programs in family medicine and pediatrics, and the basic science and applied health research programs attract more NIH funding than any other university in Colorado. CU-Anschutz is home to the University of Colorado Hospital, The Children's Hospital of Colorado, and the University of Colorado Schools of Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, Pharmacy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Public Health, providing access to an array of possibilities to improve lives across a spectrum of ages and disease states.

Why work for the University?

We have AMAZING benefits and offer exceptional amounts of holiday, vacation, and sick leave! The University of Colorado offers an excellent benefits package, including:

• Medical: Multiple plan options

• Dental: Multiple plan options

• Additional Insurance: Disability, Life, Vision

• Retirement 401(a) Plan: Employer contributes 10% of your gross pay

• Paid Time Off: Accruals over the year

• Vacation Days: 22/year (maximum accrual 352 hours)

• Sick Days: 15/year (unlimited maximum accrual)

• Holiday Days: 15/year

• Tuition Benefit: Employees have access to this benefit on all CU campuses

• ECO Pass: Reduced-rate RTD Bus and light rail service

There are many additional perks & programs with the CU Advantage.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, genetics, or a related field.

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship. We are unable to provide work visa sponsorship or employment authorization for this position now or in the future.

• Substitution: A combination of education and related technical/paraprofessional experience may be substituted for the bachelor's degree on a year-for-year basis.

Condition(s) of Employment:

• Willing to work occasional weekend/evening hours if needed.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience or background within an experimental or wet lab.

• Experience with RNA isolation and qPCR.

• Experience with protein isolation and western blots.

• Experience with immortal and/or organoid cell culture.

• Experience with laboratory animal handling.

• Experience with biological data analysis

• Master's degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, genetics, or related field.

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.

• Knowledge of basic human anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology.

• Ability to interpret and master complex research protocol information.

• Science research background.

• Basic computer and mathematics skills.

• Proficient with Microsoft Office.

• Strong organizational skills.

• Ability to work under the direction of multiple investigators.

• Ability to follow written and spoken directions.

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 the 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: Geetha Bhagavatula, Geetha.Bhagavatula@childrenscolorado.org

Screening of Applications Begins:

Applications will be accepted until finalists are identified, but preference will be given to complete applications received by May 30, 2026. 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 $47,811 to $64,067.

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

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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 hr.adacoordinator@cuanschutz.edu.

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.