Temporary Laboratory Assistant

Job Summary:

The Department of Chemistry is seeking applicants for a part-time Professional Research Assistant position. The purpose for the position is to assist a laboratory in the Department of Chemistry to reach project goals.

Applicants must have experience in organic synthesis, particularly in synthesis of nucleosides and nucleotides is necessary. This includes proficiency in NMR, IR, UV-vis, and MS. The applicant should also have experience in synthesizing and handling of oligonucleotides of DNA and RNA, i.e., purification, chemical synthesis, and characterization.

Key Responsibilities:

This part-time, Professional Research Assistant position will be responsible for general laboratory duties and maintenance, assisting to reach laboratory and grant goals, training and overseeing group members, and writing/updating protocols for documenting techniques.

* Chemical synthesis, mainly in nucleic acid chemistry, and biophysical studies (using NMR and CD) of chemically modified RNA. (75 % of time)

* Characterization of nucleosides, nucleotides, and oligonucleotides. (5% time)

* Purification of oligonucleotides of RNA and DNA (5 % time)

* Maintenance duties that include, but are not limited to, maintaining a clean environment, troubleshooting of instrumentation, training/supervising other group members, (10 % time)

* The Professional Research Assistant will supervise undergraduate student workers. (5 % time)

Work Location:

On site: 1151 Arapahoe St Science building, Rm 4149, Denver CO 80204

Why Join Us:

The University of Colorado Denver is the state's premier public urban research university and equity-serving institution. Globally connected and locally invested, CU Denver partners with future-focused learners and communities to design accessible, relevant, transformative educational experiences for every stage of life and career. Across seven schools and colleges in the heart of downtown Denver, our leading faculty inspires and works alongside students to solve complex challenges through break through innovations and impactful research, and creative work. As part of the state's largest university system, CU Denver is a major contributor to the Colorado economy, with 2,000 employees and an annual economic impact of $800 million. For more information, visit ucdenver.edu.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

Minimum Qualifications:

Degree requirements: BS degree in chemistry or related fields required

1 year of experience in working with circular dichroism and NMR of RNA

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

* Strong and clear communication skills

* Must be self-motivated and self-directed.

* Highly organized and reliable,

* Ability to work autonomously for the majority of project is an important aspects of the job.

* Ability to multi-task and manage competing priorities.

* Knowledge of organic chemistry and biochemistry of nucleic acids are assets for the position.

* Comfortable working in a collaborative environment and self-driven.

A positive, helpful, and mature personality is key to be successful in this position.

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 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: Laura Cuellar at laura.cuellar@ucdenver.edu

Screening of Applications Begins:

Immediately and continues until 6/17/26

Anticipated Pay Range:

The hiring rate for this position has been established at $20.00/ hour. The above salary rate represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the rate at the time of posting.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. Temporary employees are only eligible for sick leave benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

The University of Colorado (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@ucdenver.edu.

Background Check Statement:

The University of Colorado Denver 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.