Job Summary:

A Postdoctoral Fellow position is available to study the Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and develop therapies for this condition in the laboratory of Dr. Ganna Bilousova in the Department of Dermatology. Our research focuses on studying molecular mechanisms of connective tissue diseases, such as EDS, and developing cell and cell-free therapies for these conditions. In the laboratory, we utilize induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), CRISPR/Cas9, mouse xenograft models, human cell culture techniques, organoids, multi-omics, and other cell and molecular biology techniques. The team works closely with the Gates Biomanufacturing Facility (GBF) in advancing cell therapies developed by the laboratory into clinical manufacturing.

We are looking for a postdoctoral fellow to join our team who is passionate about translational research, developing therapies and diagnostic tools for rare conditions, such as EDS, and related fields. The candidate will work with our team to develop new diagnostics tools. In addition, the candidate will participate in drug-screening studies to develop therapies for EDS by targeting pathways involved in collagen assembly and inflammation. 

The ideal applicant will have a record of accomplishment in performing original research in an academic setting, experience with human cell cultures, mouse surgeries and protein analysis, possess excellent organizational skills, and the ability to work both independently and in a team setting.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and execute iPSC differentiation experiments to generate different type of organoids
• Design and execute CRISPR/Cas9-based gene editing experiments for validating disease-causing mutations.
• Design and execute research projects to develop new methods for EDS diagnostics
• Work on advancing therapies into the clinical manufacturing
• Perform extensive cell culture experiments utilizing human primary cells, iPSCs and iPSC-derived cells.
• Record findings, analyze and interpret data, communicate experimental results and findings in both oral and written formats.
• Work independently or as part of a team on cell biology and omics experiments, which may include implementation and maintenance of cell culture models, animal models, tissue and molecule extraction, and other techniques.
• Apply for postdoctoral fellowships and assist the PI in grant writing
• Independently lead projects and write manuscripts

Why Join Us:

Our care team's priority is to deliver quality dermatology care to patients, with an emphasis on caring for Medicaid patients and other under-served populations. We aspire to do this in a comfortable and convenient setting using accepted and well-regarded practices.

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, and holidays and more. To see what benefits are available, please visit: https://www.cu.edu/employee-services/benefits-wellness .

Diversity and Equity:

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is committed to recruiting and supporting a diverse student body, faculty and administrative staff. The university strives to promote a culture of inclusiveness, respect, communication and understanding. We encourage applications from women, ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, persons within the LGBTQ+ community and all veterans. The University of Colorado is committed to diversity and equality in education and employment.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

• Ph.D. in biochemistry, genetics, cell biology, molecular biology, bioinformatics, computational biology, systems biology, or related scientific fields from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 3 years of active wet-lab research experience in the life sciences in an academic environment during either PhD training or postdoctoral fellowship.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience with primary human cell lines and human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs)
• Experience with organoid cultures
• Prior experience with mouse handling and survival surgeries

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Oral and written communication skills; evidence for effective communication of science.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to set goals, motivate team members to achieve results
• Expert knowledge of laboratory techniques including safety procedures and techniques
• Expert ability to analyze and solve complex problems
• Experience with molecular cloning, cell culture, and sterile technique
• Previous experience with human primary and stem cell cultures, especially human embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells
• Experience with tissue dissection and mouse surgeries
• Ability to interpret and master complex research protocol information

Conditions of Employment:

• Must be able to sustain prolonged periods of sitting and/or standing in the laboratory environment.
• Must be willing to work in a standard research environment that may contain fumes, chemicals, liquid nitrogen, sharp objects, hazardous materials, tissue, and body fluids.
• Must be willing to work with complex laboratory equipment, chemical solutions, and biological materials.

How to Apply:

For full consideration, please submit the following document(s):

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

Questions should be directed to: Carmen Garcia, carmen.garcia@ucdenver.edu

Screening of Applications Begins:

Immediately and continue until position is filled.

Anticipated Pay Range:

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

Salary is at or above current NIH NRSA level and will start at $60,000.

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

ADA Statement:

The University will provide reasonable accommodations 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 hr.adacoordinator@ucdenver.edu ?.

Background Check Statement:

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our faculty, staff, students and visitors. To assist in achieving that goal, we conduct background investigations for all prospective employees.

Vaccination Statement:

The University of Colorado has a requirement for COVID-19 vaccinations and full completion thereof by 9/1/21 or upon start date.  Information regarding this requirement, and exemptions can be found at:

Anschutz: https://www.ucdenver.edu/docs/librariesprovider284/default-document-library/3000-general-admission/3012---covid-19-vaccination-requirement-and-compliance.pdf?sfvrsn=4e9df3ba_2

Unit-Specific Exemptions:

• Anschutz Campus – Accommodations may be granted for medical or religious reasons.

The University of Colorado seeks individuals with demonstrated commitment to creating an inclusive learning and working environment. We value the ability to engage effectively with students, faculty and staff of diverse backgrounds.