Job Summary

As an integral member of our research team, the Research Services Professional will contribute to cutting-edge research in Total Human Eye-Allotransplantation Innovation Advancement (THEIA) at the University of Colorado Anschutz in Aurora, CO with the Division of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. This project aims to advance the field of whole-eye transplantation, exploring innovative surgical techniques, immune rejection mechanisms, and neuroregeneration strategies.

This position offers an excellent opportunity for candidates seeking hands-on laboratory experience, publication opportunities, and preparation for admission to top-tier graduate or medical programs. The Research Services Professional will be actively involved in experimental procedures, animal handling, data analysis, and manuscript preparation, gaining valuable skills in translational research.

Key Responsibilities

Entry and Intermediate Laboratory Science Professionals perform duties in an experimental lab, or wet lab, and handle a variety of chemicals and/or potential "wet" hazards.

Examples of Duties Performed

Entry-Level

• 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 and 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 process and evaluate 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 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, operations and management needs
• Assist with ensuring compliance with applicable laws, rules and regulations; receive guidance and direction or escalate when required

Intermediate-Level (all of the above and)

• 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 creation and implementation of processes and procedures and quality improvement initiatives
• Assist and train junior team members

Additional Examples of Work Performed

• Experimental Procedures & Data Analysis: Perform benchwork techniques, including ELISA, qPCR, Western Blot (WB), and Flow Cytometry. Conduct tissue staining, microscopy, and other histological analyses. Collect, enter, and analyze experimental data.
• Animal Handling & Surgical Procedures: Perform rat handling, daily inspection, and pre-/post-surgery care. Prepare and process rat samples. Conduct ocular examinations including fERG, pERG, and OCT.
• Research Collaboration & Documentation: Collaborate with the principal investigator and research team. Document lab results, assist in manuscript preparation, and create visual data representations.
• Laboratory Management & Administration: Maintain accurate lab records, oversee lab inventory, ensure compliance with safety regulations.