Open Rank Laboratory Sciences Professional - Pediatric Cardiology

Job Summary:

The Garcia Lab in Pediatric Cardiology is seeking a Laboratory Sciences Professional who is highly motivated and eager to learn, conduct research, and work as a team with other laboratory staff. The lab studies cellular mechanisms of pediatric heart disease progression with an emphasis on cell metabolism, inflammatory signaling, and lipid synthesis - we utilize both human patient samples as well as animal (mouse/rat) models to identify unique adaptations associated with pediatric heart failure to identify novel therapeutic targets.

This Laboratory Sciences Professional will have a key role in conducting a variety of wet lab experiments exploring the molecular mechanisms associated with the progression to heart failure in the pediatric congenital heart disease population. Candidates should show significant interest in working with murine models.

Opportunities and Training:

• Will work on projects studying mechanisms of heart failure in congenital heart disease.
• Will learn a variety of wet-lab experiments, including several molecular biology techniques, high-resolution mitochondrial respirometry, cardiomyocyte isolation and culture, immune cell isolation and culture, and assays of inflammation.
• Will develop proficiency in collecting, recording, analyzing, and presenting data.
• Will learn mouse/rat IP and SQ injections.
• May assist in the training of new team members on laboratory protocols and operations.
• May assist the principal investigator with the development and writing of research protocols.
• May assist the Principal Investigator with the development and writing of manuscripts and presentations, including as a credited author where appropriate.

Key Responsibilities:

• Processing human whole blood samples, including isolation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells, plasma, and serum.
• In vitro murine primary cardiomyocyte isolation and culture.
• In vivo murine animal model work (mouse/rat), including injections, dissections, survival surgeries, and termination procedures.
• Functional mitochondrial bioenergetics analysis.
• Organization and cataloging of human samples, antibodies, and chemicals.
• Laboratory supply ordering and invoice tracking.
• RNA, DNA, and protein extraction.
• Reagent preparation.
• Immunological assays.
• Protein and RNA quantification (Western blotting, proteomics, RT-qPCR, RNAseq).
• ELISA and enzymatic activity assays.
• Data analysis and presentation.

Work Location:

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

Why Join Us:

Researchers within the University of Colorado Department of Pediatrics work closely with the Children's Hospital Colorado, which is ranked the top pediatric hospital in the Rocky Mountain region (U.S. News & World Report). Our heart transplant program has performed over 500 heart transplants over the last 30+ years, offering lifesaving treatment for infants and children with heart failure due to congenital heart disease or cardiomyopathy. We serve as a referral center for pediatric heart failure patients within Colorado, Wyoming, New Mexico, Montana, and parts of Nebraska, Kansas, and South Dakota. This large clinical volume offers a unique opportunity to improve pediatric heart failure outcomes through basic and translational research, including the use of human samples from one of the largest and most established pediatric cardiac biobanks in the country.

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, 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:

Entry Level:

• 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.
  
  
  
  

Intermediate Level:

• 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.
  
  
  
  
• One (1) year professional-level research experience.

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience using rodent models.
• Cell culture experience.
• Training in molecular techniques with a good theoretical understanding and experience in the interpretation of results.
• Laboratory management skills.
• Two (2) years of professional-level research experience.

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 anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology.
• Ability to interpret and master complex research protocol information.

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: Anastacia (Tasha) Garcia, PhD (Anastacia.Garcia@CUAnschutz.edu)

Screening of Applications Begins:

Applications will be accepted until finalists are identified, but preference will be given to complete applications received by April 26, 2024. Those who do not apply by this date may or may not be considered.

Anticipated Pay Range:

The hiring range for this position has been established as:

Entry Level: $45,000 to $57,240

Intermediate Level: $48,970 to $62,290

The above 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 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.