"Principal Laboratory Science Professional"

Principal Laboratory Science Professional

University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus

Department: Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics

Job Title: Principal Laboratory Science Professional

Position #: 00839640 - Requisition #39386

Job Summary:

The laboratory of Dr. Olivia Rissland seeks to hire a Principal Laboratory Science Professional to work on leading edge questions in RNA biology pursued as part of our research program outlined below. Our lab is in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics and part of the RNA Bioscience Initiative at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Our lab studies how co-translational processes regulate gene expression and is newly focused on leveraging these insights to create novel molecular tools.

One long-term goal of our research program is to understand the molecular mechanism of 2A peptides. These short 20-22 amino acid sequences enable a unique co-translational event - the skipping of a peptide bond - and thus the production of multiple, separate peptides from one coding region. This individual will investigate the molecular mechanism, using a suite of tools from biochemistry to cryo-electron microscopy to in-cell assays. Ideal candidates will have expertise in RNA biochemistry or structural biology, as well as familiarity with tissue culture cell work. Candidates will be expected to plan and execute independent work, assist in the writing and publication of experimental results, and contribute positively towards the atmosphere and culture of the lab.

Key Responsibilities:

• Investigate how 2A peptides function.
• Develop molecular tools based on insights from 2A peptide research.
• Utilize experimental techniques, including: Mammalian cell culture, RNA biochemistry, Cryo-EM, Nucleic acid purification and sequencing, Computational biology, Genome engineering, Molecular genetics
• Gain proficiency in RNA biology, biochemistry, and structural biology throughout the course of research

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

Why Join Us: Our department conducts research across a wide biological scale for fundamental scientific understanding with applications to many disease contexts. The overarching goal is to reach a level of molecular insight that helps develop therapeutic approaches to disease.

As biochemists and molecular geneticists, we are amid an unprecedented time of discovery - our conception of the molecular biology of cells is going from the equivalent of grainy black-and-white to high-resolution technicolor. From deciphering the choreography of transcription complexes, chromosomes, and RNA molecules within cells to developing novel approaches to 3D molecular structure determination to understanding how viruses hijack a cell's machinery and alter its metabolome, the researchers in Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics (BMG) are at the forefronts of their fields both conceptually and technologically.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, genetics or related field + A combination of education and related technical/paraprofessional experience may be substituted for the bachelor's degree on a year for year basis
• Three (3) years professional level research experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, genetics or related field
• Four (4) years of experience in an experimental or wet laboratory, which includes: Experience in RNA biology, Molecular biology and biochemistry experiments, Cryo-EM structural experiments, Cell culture involving immortalized and primary mammalian cell lines, Nucleic acid isolation and purification, Generation of next-generation sequencing libraries, Advanced imaging techniques, Genome engineering using CRISPR-Cas9

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Expert knowledge of laboratory techniques including safety procedures and techniques
• Expert ability to analyze and solve complex problems
• 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
• Ability to interpret and master complex research protocol information

How to Apply: For full consideration, please submit the following document(s): 1. Curriculum vitae / Resume 2. Three to five professional references, including name, address, phone number (mobile number if appropriate), and email address. Questions should be directed to: Olivia Rissland

Screening of Applications Begins: Screening begins immediately and continues until March 28, 2026.

Anticipated Pay Range: The starting salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established as $62,606 - $79,635.