Professional Research Assistant

Job Summary

The Sousa Lab at the University of Colorado-Boulder is seeking two highly motivated and detail-oriented Professional Research Assistants (PRAs) to join our research team. The positions are to provide research support for projects focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms of outer membrane protein transport folding and insertion as well as mechanisms of virulence and antibiotic resistance in bacteria. For entry level applicants, training will be provided.

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.

Who We Are

Since 1986, Biochemistry at the University of Colorado at Boulder has offered a world-class interdisciplinary research environment in a beautiful mountain setting. Faculty include a Nobel Laureate, five members of the National Academy of Sciences, three Howard Hughes Investigators, and many other esteemed scientists who have established themselves as research leaders within biochemistry.

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

• Perform wet lab experiments including: cloning, mutagenesis, heterologous gene expression, expression in E. coli, chromatography, protein purity evaluation, spectroscopic characterization, enzyme assays, detergent solubilizations, preparation of liposomes and nanodiscs, density gradients etc.
• Carry out microscopy imaging, including single-cell and single-molecule approaches.
• Maintain routine lab operations to ensure a smooth and efficient research environment. This include: ensuring compliance with environmental health and safety, as well as biosafety and radiation safety; contributing to routine lab instrument preventive maintenance; complying with sample archiving and documentation; etc.
• Keep accurate and detailed records of experiments, procedures, and results.
• Collaborate with other team members or a biotech startup to advance therapeutics development.

What You Should Know

• The positions are available immediately. However, a start date in August-September is possible.
• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities.
• Opportunity to contribute to impactful research in a leading academic environment.
• Professional development opportunities.

What We Can Offer

Annual Salary range of $36,000 - $50,000.

Benefits

At the University of Colorado Boulder, we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County’s largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.

Be Statements

Be ambitious. Be pioneering. Be Boulder.

What We Require

• Bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, molecular biology or related discipline
• Wet laboratory experience in biochemistry. Molecular biology or related discipline.
• Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently after training.
• Ability to work flexible hours to accommodate research project demands.

What You Will Need

• One year of experience in wet laboratory work using techniques in biochemistry or molecular biology.

What We Would Like You to Have

• Track record of independent research, such as an undergraduate research honor thesis.
• Experience in protein expression/purification is highly desirable. Specially involving membrane proteins.
• Experience in fluorescence microscopy imaging, especially bacterial imaging, is highly desirable.

Special Instructions

To apply, please submit the following materials as PDFs:

1. Resume/CV
2. Cover Letter

If you are selected as the finalist, your degree will be verified by the CU Boulder Campus Human Resources department using an approved online vendor. If your degree was obtained outside of the United States, please submit a translated version (if applicable) as an optional attachment.

During the application process you will need to enter contact information for a reference who can write a letter of recommendation on your behalf. We will request letters and additional materials, if needed, as the search progresses.

Please apply by May 20, 2026 for consideration.

Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, please apply through CU Boulder Jobs.

In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.