Position Details
University of Colorado | Denver
Faculty Level/Title: Professional Research Assistant
Working Title: Molecular Biology Research Technician
FTE: Full-time
Salary Range: $40,124 - $83,000
Position # 00655590 -
Requisition #40363
Join the University of Colorado Denver
About the University of Colorado Denver
Millions of moments start at CU Denver, a place where innovation, research, and learning meet in the heart of a global city. We're the state's premier public urban research university with more than 100 in-demand, top-ranked bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs. We partner with diverse learners-at any stage of their life and career-for transformative educational experiences. Across seven schools and colleges, our leading faculty inspires and works alongside students to solve complex challenges and produce impactful 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 $665 million. To learn more about how CU Denver helps learners meet their moment, visit ucdenver.edu.
Job Description
* Applications are accepted electronically ONLY at www.cu.edu/cu-careers*
The Mattioli Lab is a newly established research group in the Integrative Biology Department at the University of Colorado Denver, studying how the genome becomes misregulated in cancer. We focus on breast cancer, and specifically on how alternative RNA splicing produces distinct gene isoforms that drive oncogenic cell states. To investigate these questions, we combine molecular biology, cancer biology, and genomics, including long-read RNA sequencing, RNA-targeting CRISPR, and computational analysis.
We are recruiting a highly motivated, full-time Professional Research Assistant to help build a brand-new lab from the ground up. This position is ideal for a recent college graduate seeking hands-on training and mentorship in cutting-edge molecular biology, cancer biology, and genomics before applying to PhD or MD programs; we will also consider candidates with more extensive research experience. A minimum two-year commitment is preferred to allow sufficient time for training. While this is primarily an experimental position, the lab does substantial bioinformatics, so there is plenty of opportunity for computational work if desired.
As one of the lab's first members, the successful candidate will have an unusual degree of opportunity: to develop and publish independent research projects, help shape the lab's operational and experimental systems, gain exposure to budgeting and grant writing, and work side by side with the PI. The role spans techniques across molecular biology, biochemistry, and genomics, such as cloning, mammalian cell culture, DNA/RNA purification, sequencing library preparation, and CRISPR screening, along with routine lab operations. Prior experience with some of these methods is preferred, but experience with all is not required.
Molecular Biology Research Technician
What you will do:
- Conduct molecular biology, biochemistry, and genomics experiments under the direction of the PI, including cloning, mammalian cell culture, DNA/RNA purification, sequencing library preparation, and CRISPR screening (55%).
- Collect, record, and analyze experimental data; maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records; present results at lab meetings (20%).
- Support day-to-day lab operations, including ordering and managing reagents and supplies, maintaining equipment, preparing common stocks, and helping ensure compliance (15%).
- Contribute to the lab's research output and collaborative environment by participating in lab meetings and journal clubs, helping prepare data for manuscripts, presentations, and grants, and assisting with training of new lab members as the group grows (10%).
Qualifications you already possess (Minimum Qualifications)
Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.
- A bachelor's degree in biology, molecular biology, genetics, or a closely related field.
- Foundational laboratory or research training or experience. Relevant coursework such as lab courses in molecular biology, cell biology, or general biology will be considered.
Preferred Qualification to possess (Preferred Qualifications)
- Prior experimental research experience (undergraduate, post-baccalaureate, or professional) in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or genetics.
- Experience with one or more of the following techniques: molecular cloning, mammalian cell culture, DNA/RNA extraction, PCR/RT-qPCR, next-generation sequencing, CRISPR-based methods, or single-cell sequencing.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Foundational knowledge of molecular biology, including core concepts in gene expression.
- Careful and accurate record-keeping, including maintenance of lab notebooks.
- Good communication skills and problem-solving.
- Ability to take direction and work independently when trained in a technique.
- Genuine curiosity about science and a drive to contribute meaningfully to research.
- Motivated to learn and grow.
- Collaborative, dependable, and contributes positively to a supportive lab culture.
- Familiarity with basic data analysis or scientific computing (e.g. R, Python).
- Demonstrated interest in cancer biology, gene regulation, RNA biology, or functional genomics.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Conditions of Employment
- This position requires an onsite presence on campus 5 days a week.
- Occasional work during the evening and weekends may be required depending on experiment timing.
Mental, Physical, and/or Environmental Requirements
- This position may be performed on site, and will require the ability to sit for extended periods, stand and walk occasionally, reach with hands and arms, use hands to manipulate a keyboard and mouse, and have good near vision for computer work; often requiring minimal lifting, but may involve bending or reaching to retrieve items from shelves or drawers.
- Position operates in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological materials, chemicals, and other hazardous agents, requiring adherence to established safety protocols and a higher degree of operator care.
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.
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 workplaceengagement@ucdenver.edu.
Employment Sponsorship
Please be advised that this position is not eligible now or in the future for visa sponsorship.
Compensation and Benefits
The salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established at $40,124 - $83,000.
The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty, and training. 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. Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Colorado Denver provides generous leave, health plans and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line. Benefits statement to include in all benefits-eligible positions. See Eligibility Matrix. Benefits: https://www.cu.edu/employee-services/benefits Total Compensation Calculator: http://www.cu.edu/node/153125
Application Deadline
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Preference will be given to complete applications received by Aug 1, 2026, 11:59:00 PM Those who do not apply by this date may or may not be considered.
Required Application Materials:
To apply, please visit: http://www.cu.edu/cu-careers and attach:
- A letter of interest describing relevant job experiences as they relate to listed job qualifications and interest in the position.
- Curriculum vitae / Resume outlining experience(s).
- Three professional references including name, address, phone number (mobile number if appropriate), and email address. (We will notify you prior to contacting both on and off-list references).
Questions should be directed to Kaia Mattioli, kaia.mattioli@ucdenver.edu.
Background Check Policy
The University of Colorado Denver strives to maintain a safe and productive educational, clinical, research and employment environment. All prospective employees and current employees must, therefore, consent to and pass background checks prior to any final appointment/employment.
