Science Communication Assistant Jobs in Colorado

University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus 

Department: Anesthesiology

Job Title: Senior Laboratory Science Professional

Position #: 00849653 - Requisition #: 40229

Job Summary:

The Dabertrand Laboratory in the Department of Anesthesiology investigates the control of cerebral blood flow by ion channels and calcium signals in the pericytes, endothelial cells, and smooth muscle cells that constitute the intracerebral microcirculation. We focus on the interaction between neural activity and the microvasculature in different brain regions, in physiological and small-vessel disease conditions.

We are seeking a senior-level Laboratory Science Professional who will primarily perform mouse colony maintenance, including but not limited to breeding, tagging, and weaning of 6 different transgenic mouse strains, ordering mice, writing and amending IACUC protocols. An ideal candidate would have experience in survival and non-survival surgeries on mice, conduct behavioral tests, have knowledge of laboratory safety protocols, and write standard operating procedures and protocols for new experimental designs. The ability to communicate clearly to lab members, new hires, graduate students, etc., is required. Background in biology, especially cardiovascular and/or neuroscience, would be a plus.

Key Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with and support Principal Investigators (PI) 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, documenting, and communicating results

• Perform pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical test processes and evaluate the results produced

• Prepare lab for daily operations, including stocking materials, equipment, safety, cleanliness, and related areas

• Provide animal care related to research studies, as necessary

• 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 in researching issues and developing recommendations to resolve process, unit, and related issues

• Assist in the review and implementation of lab support policies, practices, and programs to meet organizational, operational, and management needs

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

• Independently and creatively identify laboratory solutions

• Independently Review, develop, and implement new or modified laboratory techniques required for research projects

• Assist Team Leads, Supervisors, and/or management with the creation and implementation of processes and procedures and quality improvement initiatives

• Assist and train junior team members

• Equipment setup, maintenance, and repair

• Manage chemical inventories and arrange pickup of chemical waste

Additional Duties & Responsibilities:

• IACUC amendment writing

• Patience and fine motor skills

Work Location:

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

Why Join Us:

The University of Colorado School of Medicine and the Department of Anesthesiology are a world-class medical destination at the forefront of transformative education, science, medicine, and healthcare. The Department of Anesthesiology has several clinical specialties and is a nationally recognized leader in anesthesiology and perioperative medical education. We are dedicated to developing leaders in anesthesiology and perioperative medicine who demonstrate clinical excellence, professionalism, and a commitment to life-long learning. Our faculty have a resolve to create an exciting academic environment that will build upon what is already recognized as one of the finest residency programs in the country, and by advancing education within our specialty, we continue to improve the lives of learners and patients in a complex and evolving world of medicine.

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 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

• Two (2) years' professional-level research experience

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.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with mouse colony maintenance

• Specific work experience in molecular, biochemical, or cell biology techniques

• Experience with Microsoft Office software programs

• Experience with data science

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• 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

• Outstanding customer service skills

• 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 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: Jessica Rocz, jessica.rocz@cuanschutz.edu

Screening of Applications Begins:

Immediately and continues until 6/17/26

Anticipated Pay Range:

The starting salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established as $56,249 to $75,373.

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.