Research Associate

Cell culture

Position Description

A Research Associate position is available in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering to support a research program using methods from synthetic biology to rationally optimize the next generation of gene delivery vectors. We seek an exceptional individual with a degree in biochemistry, biological engineering, biomedical engineering, or a related field to fill a Research Associate position. The primary responsibility associated with this position is the development and execution of high-throughput cellar assays to test candidate expression vectors.

This position is located at Colorado State University in Fort Collins, CO.

The successful candidate must be eligible to work in the United States by the proposed start date. Colorado State University will not provide visa sponsorship for this position.

Position type: This is a temporary non-student hourly position that will be converted to a permanent position after 6 to 9 months if successful. The number of hours will be between 20 and 40 hours, depending on the candidate's availability and lab needs. Hourly rate will be $30 to $60 depending on the candidate's experience.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor degree in biology, biochemistry, microbiology, biological engineering or other related fields.
  • Prior experience working with mammalian cell culture in a BSLII environment.
  • Effective oral and written communication skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to work in a team environment.
  • Experience using, improving, and developing standard operating procedures
  • Ability to use data management systems and record keeping including laboratory information management systems (LIMS), electronic lab notebooks, and databases.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Graduate degree in a relevant discipline.
  • Previous experience in flow cytometry and/or fluorescence microscopy
  • Previous experience designing and performing in vivo assays in mice.
  • Previous experience in vaccine or gene therapy manufacturing.
  • Experience with automated instruments used in high-throughput workflows.
  • Experience working with and disposing of biohazardous and chemical waste.
  • Experience enforcing health and safety compliance

Essential Job Duties

Research (80%)

  • Design, evaluate, and qualify new cellular assays
  • Improve existing protocols
  • Keep laboratory notebook and other research records
  • Perform experiments under the guidance of the Principal Investigator
  • Participate in the analysis of experimental data
  • Develop figures and contribute to the writing of scientific articles and research proposals as appropriate

Laboratory Management (20%)

  • Research equipment, materials, and supplies necessary to perform experiments.
  • Ensure that the laboratory complies with institutional health and safety policies.
  • Ensure that laboratory personnel comply with existing standard operating procedures
  • Participate in or lead the development of new standard operating policies
  • Train new laboratory personnel in laboratory safety and technique.
  • Supervise undergraduate research assistant.