Professional Research Assistant

Position Details
University of Colorado | Denver
Faculty Level/Title: Professional Research Assistant
FTE: Full-time
Salary Range: $46,274 to $53,861
Position #00847892 - Requisition #39897

About the University of Colorado Denver
Millions of moments start at CU Denver, a place where innovation, research, and learning meet in the heart of a global city. We're the state's premier public urban research university with more than 100 in-demand, top-ranked bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs. We partner with diverse learners-at any stage of their life and career-for transformative educational experiences. Across seven schools and colleges, our leading faculty inspires and works alongside students to solve complex challenges and produce impactful creative work. As part of the state's largest university system, CU Denver is a major contributor to the Colorado economy, with 2,000 employees and an annual economic impact of $665 million. To learn more about how CU Denver helps learners meet their moment, visit ucdenver.edu.

Job Description
* Applications are accepted electronically ONLY at www.cu.edu/cu-careers *

Why Join Us
The University of Colorado offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, life insurance, retirement plans, tuition benefits, ECO pass, paid time off - vacation, sick, holidays, and more. To see what benefits are available, please visit: https://www.cu.edu/employee-services/benefits-wellness.

Job Summary
Our laboratory leads innovative, translational research that advances cardiovascular therapeutics for both women and men by integrating biomaterials, nanotechnology, and cardiovascular mechanobiology. Our lab's success depends on rigorous scientific methodology, ethical conduct, and a shared commitment to generating knowledge that meaningfully impacts both the scientific community and society. As a member of the lab, you will contribute directly to this mission, whether through designing and executing experiments, analyzing complex datasets, or helping develop technologies such as engineered mechanobiology platforms, nanoparticle-based therapeutics, engineered in vitro models, etc. We will tailor your experience to your comfort level but anticipate that you will ultimately design and carry-out experiments independently.

Key Responsibilities:
* Nanoparticle fabrication
* Polymer synthesis and biomaterial fabrication
* Engineering in vitro models
* Heart transplant readouts will include flow cytometry, histology, cytotoxicity assays, and immunofluorescence.

You will work with the PI and a team of collaborators in an open, enthusiastic, and exciting environment.

Professional Research Assistant
* 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
* Assist with reagent inventory and ordering
* Assist with manuscript preparation, editing, and submission
* Submit research abstracts for presentation at national conferences

Additional Duties & Responsibilities:
* Clear, concise note taking and recording of data (5%)
* Reagent preparation (5%)
* Lab meeting; 1:1 meeting prep (10%)
* Manuscript preparation (10%)
* Laboratory supply ordering and invoice tracking (10%)
* Biomechanical analysis of samples (10%)
* Histology/Immunofluorescence (15%)
* Nanoparticle fabrication
* Biomaterial synthesis and fabrication
* Electrospinning
* ex vivo murine model work, including dissections, and termination procedures (35%)
* Pena Laboratory Specific Roles/Responsibilities:
o Biomaterial synthesis
o Nanoparticle fabrication using standard laboratory practices
o Add with biomaterials and nanoparticle characterization
o Assessment of biomechanical properties of cells, tissues and biomaterials using atomic force microscopy and other biomechanical techniques
o Engineering of in vitro models (3D models, engineered heart tissues, cardiac spheroids, organoids)
o Learn downstream readouts including flow cytometry, histology preparation and interpretation.
o Be willing to learn side by side with PI as we conduct translational heart transplantation research.

This description is a summary only and is describing the general level of work being performed, it is not intended to be all-inclusive. The duties of this position may change from time to time and/or based on business need. We reserve the right to add or delete duties and responsibilities at the discretion of the supervisor and/or hiring authority.

Qualifications you already possess (Minimum Qualifications)
Minimum Qualifications:
* Bachelor's degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, genetics, or related field.
o Substitution: A combination of education and related technical/paraprofessional experience may be substituted for the bachelor's degree on a year-for-year basis.

Preferred Qualification to possess (Preferred Qualifications)
* Master's degree in biomedical engineering, chemical engineering or related field
* Two (2) years of experience in an experimental or wet laboratory
* Cell culture experience
* Nanoparticle formation experience
* Polymer synthesis
* Training in molecular techniques with a good theoretical understanding and experience in interpretation of results
* Experience laboratory animal management and handling
* Laboratory management skills

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
* Proficient knowledge of basic laboratory techniques, including safety procedures and techniques.
* 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.
* Demonstrated commitment and leadership ability to advance diversity and inclusion.
* Knowledge of basic human anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology.
* Ability to interpret and master complex research protocol information.

Conditions of Employment
* Employees in this position will be required to work in the laboratory.

Mental, Physical, and/or Environmental Requirements
* This position may be performed on site, and will require the ability to sit for extended periods, stand and walk occasionally, reach with hands and arms, use hands to manipulate a keyboard and mouse, and have good near vision for computer work; often requiring minimal lifting, but may involve bending or reaching to retrieve items from shelves or drawers.
* Moves equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
* Potential exposure to biological substances and infectious materials
* Potential exposure to toxic or caustic chemicals
* Mental functions include, but not limited to:
o Analyzing
o Communicating
o Comparing
o Compiling
o Computing
o Coordinating
o Copying
o Instructing
o Interpersonal Skills/Behavior
o Negotiating
o Synthesizing

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.
The University will provide reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at workplaceengagement@ucdenver.edu .

Employment Sponsorship
Please be advised that this position is not eligible now or in the future for visa sponsorship.

Compensation and Benefits
The salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established at $46,274 - $53,861.
The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty, and training.
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.
Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Colorado Denver provides generous leave, health plans and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.
Benefits statement to include in all benefits-eligible positions. See Eligibility Matrix.
Benefits: https://www.cu.edu/employee-services/benefits
Total Compensation Calculator: http://www.cu.edu/node/153125

Application Deadline
Applications will be accepted until finalists are identified, and interviews begin. Preference will be given to complete applications received by 5/18/2026. Those who do not apply by this date may or may not be considered.

Required Application Materials:
To apply, please visit: http://www.cu.edu/cu-careers and attach:
* A letter of interest describing relevant job experiences as they relate to listed job qualifications and interest in the position.
* Curriculum vitae / Resume outlining experience(s).
* Three professional references including name, address, phone number (mobile number if appropriate), and email address. (We will notify you prior to contacting both on and off-list references).

Questions should be directed to Brisa Pena, BRISA.PENACASTELLANOS@CUANSCHUTZ.EDU

Background Check Policy
The University of Colorado Denver strives to maintain a safe and productive educational, clinical, research and employment environment. All prospective employees and current employees must, therefore, consent to and pass background checks prior to any final appointment/employment.