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Assay Development Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Post-Doctoral Fellow

Aurora, CO

$49K - $67K/yr

Protein engineering and biochemical assay development * Nanobody discovery, selection, characterization * Structural biology approaches (preferably cryo-EM) * Biophysical characterization of protein ...

Post-Doctoral Fellow

Aurora, CO · On-site

$49K - $67K/yr

Protein engineering and biochemical assay development * Nanobody discovery, selection, characterization * Structural biology approaches (preferably cryo-EM) * Biophysical characterization of protein ...

Data Analyst

Boulder, CO · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

This mineral challenge represents a historic opportunity for technology development and value ... Experience with common biological assays, including fluorometric assays, protein quantification, or ...

... Contract Development and Manufacturing Organisations. The Group also has a rapidly developing ... Perform routine and non-routine quality control review of diagnostic assays, equipment, laboratory ...

Showing results 21-40

Assay Development information

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How much do assay development jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for assay development in Colorado is $40.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.81 and $48.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are common challenges faced when developing new assays, and how can they be addressed?

Assay Development professionals often encounter challenges such as optimizing assay sensitivity and specificity, troubleshooting inconsistent results, and adapting protocols for high-throughput environments. These issues are typically addressed through systematic optimization of reagents and conditions, rigorous validation, and collaboration with cross-functional teams like R&D, quality assurance, and automation specialists. Clear documentation and regular team meetings also help in quickly identifying and resolving technical hurdles, ensuring the assay meets project goals and regulatory standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in assay development, and why are they important?

To thrive in Assay Development, you need a solid background in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree or advanced training. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, data analysis software, and validation protocols is typically required, along with experience in techniques like ELISA, PCR, or cell-based assays. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective collaboration are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the accuracy, reliability, and efficiency of assays, which are critical for research, diagnostics, and product development.

What is the difference between Assay Development vs Laboratory Scientist?

AspectAssay DevelopmentLaboratory Scientist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Life Sciences, relevant certificationsBachelor's or Master's in Life Sciences, relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, biotech companies, pharmaceutical firmsResearch labs, hospitals, biotech companies
Industry UsageDesigning and optimizing assays for research and diagnosticsPerforming experiments, data collection, and analysis

Assay Development focuses on creating and optimizing diagnostic or research assays, while Laboratory Scientists perform experiments and analyze data within the lab. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often work in similar environments, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What does an assay development scientist do?

An assay development scientist designs, optimizes, and validates laboratory tests to measure specific biological or chemical substances. They work with techniques such as ELISA, PCR, or spectrophotometry, often using specialized equipment and following regulatory standards to ensure assay accuracy and reliability.

What are popular job titles related to Assay Development jobs in Colorado?

For Assay Development jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Assay Development job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, 88% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $84,563 per year, or $40.7 per hour.

$49K - $67K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


University Of Colorado Boulder rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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Job description

University of Colorado Anschutz

Department: Physiology and Biophysics

Working Title: Postdoctoral Fellow

Position #00850568 - Requisition #40496

Job Summary:

Nature of Work

The Fernandez-Marino lab is seeking to hire a postdoctoral fellow. The position will focus on university compliance, lab organization, and inventory, and has reserved time (approximately 50%) to contribute to other aspects of the lab's research. These aspects include investigating the molecular mechanisms of membrane proteins using an integrative approach combining biochemistry, biophysics, and structural biology. The lab is looking for a creative and motivated scientist interested in understanding how changes in protein structure control biological function. The project will focus on the biochemical and structural characterization of voltage-gated ion channels and its regulation by nanoantibodies in disease signaling pathways.

The lab is located within the University of Colorado School of Medicine Department of Physiology & Biophysics and the Aurora/Denver Anschutz Medical campus. Postdoctoral fellows will benefit from a multidisciplinary, vibrant, open, and collegial department.  The Fernandez-Marino lab provides rich opportunities to interact with other biophysics and physology laboratories within the department,  also with an even larger collection of systems neuroscience laboratories studying the neural basis of sensory-motor behaviors.

Supervision Received

The Postdoctoral Fellow will be supervised by Dr. Ana Fernandez-Marino, Ph.D.

Examples of Work Performed

  1. Perform experiments and tabulate and analyze research data

  2. Oral communication of preliminary results at lab meetings

  3. Oral and written communication of completed work at national or international meetings.

  4. Create figures and write papers

  5. Collaborate with and support Principal Investigators (PI) and other stakeholders with laboratory and research functions

  6. Utilize a variety of laboratory techniques required for research projects

  7. Independently and creatively identify laboratory solutions

  8. Independently review, develop and implement new or modified laboratory techniques required for research projects

  9. Provide laboratory science expertise and leadership in study design, study oversight, data management, data analysis and manuscript preparation to assist all levels of investigators, researchers and clinicians on new research activities across a wide range of disciplines

Work Location:

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

Why Join Us:

Why work for the University?

The University of Colorado offers a comprehensive benefits package. To see what benefits are available for Post-Doctoral Fellows, please visit:

  • Payroll & Benefits Orientation for Post-Doctoral Fellows | University of Colorado (cu.edu)
  • benefits guide cover-post-doc-2024 (cu.edu)

Qualifications:

Minimum Requirements:
Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

Minimum requirements must be identifiable from the CV/Resume

  • Ph.D. in biochemistry, structural biology, molecular biology, biophysics, neuroscience, or a related field

  • A record of first-author publications

Preferred Qualifications: (
Identifiable from the CV/Resume

  • Experience with any of the following:

    • Molecular Biology

    • Expression and purification of recombinant proteins

    • Membrane protein production and characterization

    • Protein engineering and biochemical assay development

    • Nanobody discovery, selection, characterization

    • Structural biology approaches (preferably cryo-EM)

    • Biophysical characterization of protein structure

  • Experience with membrane proteins and/or nanobody technologies is highly desirable. Expertise in structural biology would be a major advantage, but enthusiasm for learning new approaches and addressing challenging biological questions is equally valued.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Advanced knowledge of 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

  • Ability to interpret and master complex research protocol information

  • Knowledge on molecular biology

  • Knowledge on basic animal anatomy and physiology.

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

Applications are accepted electronically ONLY at www.cu.edu/cu-careers.

Questions should be directed to: ANA.FERNANDEZ-MARINO@CUANSCHUTZ.EDU

Screening of Applications Begins:


Applications will be accepted until finalists are identified, but preference will be given to complete applications received by August 31, 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 HIRING RANGE:

$63,480 - $67,000

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

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 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.


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