"Research Associate - CellSight"

Job Summary

CellSight, the Ocular Stem Cell and Regeneration Research Program at the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, seeks several full-time (1.0 FTE) Research Associates to carry out research in the areas of retinal biology, stem cell technologies, and regenerative medicine. CellSight is a cross-disciplinary team of investigators working in a highly collaborative environment with the common goal of developing novel stem cell-based therapeutics to treat ocular diseases. For more information about research performed by CellSight teams please visit: https://medschool.cuanschutz.edu/ophthalmology/research/cellsight-program

The successful candidates will be involved in a research project aimed at establishing an innovative regenerative strategy to treat retinal degenerative diseases. This is an exciting, new line of work using cutting-edge technology in the stem cell field and we are looking for motivated and independent scientists willing to contribute with technical expertise and knowledge. There is no direct patient care or contact involved in this position. Main responsibilities include developing and carrying out research projects using stem cell culture and retinal organoid tissues along with cell, developmental and molecular biology techniques. Duties include publishing and communicating research results in both oral and written formats and assisting with the training and mentoring of students and technicians.

Key Responsibilities:

• Designing, planning and conducting research studies from inception to completion
• Performing experiments using human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) cultures, retinal organoid tissues, and other molecular, developmental and cell biology techniques as needed
• Analyzing and interpreting research results.
• Maintaining effective communication with the principal investigator and other team members
• Keeping an organized record of research experiments and results
• Assisting in the training and mentoring of students and technicians
• Preparing manuscripts for publication in scientific journals
• Participating in lab meetings and attending scientific seminars and conferences

Work Location:

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

Why Join Us:

Our department's home is the newly expanded Sue Anschutz Rodgers Eye Center on the Anschutz Medical Campus. This state-of-the-art facility is one of the largest eye centers in the country and serves not only patients in the Rocky Mountain region but also patients all over the world.

The technological innovations conceived and developed by Departmental faculty have changed the practice of eye care throughout the world. Our educational programs train the next generation of leaders in ophthalmology. Our specialists have developed national and international reputations for excellence in routine and complex ophthalmic care. We have invested heavily in tracking our clinical outcomes and we are proud that our clinicians perform at the highest levels in their respective fields.

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: 10/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:

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with an MD/PhD or PhD in a relevant biomedical science discipline
• Minimum of 3 years of research experience in vision science

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience with stem cell culture techniques
• Previous experience in 3D organoid differentiation, retinal organoids
• Strong understanding of the pathophysiology of retinal degenerative diseases
• Expertise in retinal pigment epithelium and photoreceptor physiology, including interphotoreceptor matrix composition and function
• Expertise in retinal electrophysiology, ERG and ORG
• Experience performing retinal surgeries and follow up post-operative evaluation
• Previous experience in working with hydrogel platforms for cell delivery
• Experience with cell, developmental, and molecular biology techniques
• A strong publishing record

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Strong team player with excellent customer service and interpersonal skills and has the ability to work with a diverse group and competing interests.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to effectively explain processes and procedures.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills with the ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, work under tight deadlines.
• Flexibility and the ability to adapt to various situations.
• Ability to take direction and use independent judgment to complete assigned tasks.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Analytical and reasoning ability.
• Ability to represent the department and University in a professional manner with tact and diplomacy.

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. 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: Ashley Woodhouse ashley.woodhouse@cuanschutz.edu

Screening of Applications Begins:

Begins on November 1, 2025. For best consideration, apply by December 16, 2025.

Anticipated Pay Range:

The starting salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established as HIRING RANGE:

$70,000 to $85,000

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