Job Summary:

The Department of Bioengineering and the Barbara Davis Center has an opening for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow.

The Department of Bioengineering and the Barbara Davis Center at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical campus is seeking to fill a postdoctoral research fellow position. The successful candidate will develop research projects related to applying contrast-enhanced ultrasound approaches, optical imaging and computer modelling to study remodeling of the islet microvasculature and islet blood flow regulation in type1 diabetes and to advance the development of ultrasound-based diagnostics for type 1 diabetes.

The Benninger lab is a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers who broadly investigates the cellular and physiological mechanisms underlying the regulation of the endocrine pancreas and hormone secretion, and how dysregulation to these mechanisms causes diabetes. The lab takes a multidisciplinary approach to understand how the islet o Langerhans functions as an integrated unit, which includes how heterogeneous insulin-secreting β-cells and other endocrine cells within the islet interact via electrical, as well as how they integrate with the surrounding vasculature and innervations.

A key area of interest in the lab has been examining remodeling of the microvasculature and blood flow regulation within the islets of Langerhans during the progression of type1 diabetes. This has included applying contrast-enhanced ultrasound imaging techniques to non-invasively track changes within the islet microvasculature and blood flow during diabetes development in both mouse models and human subjects. The lab is highly collaborative, working with other research groups across the Anschutz Medical Campus, at the at Boulder campus and with other institutions. 

Specific Position Details:

·       The ideal candidate will develop projects related to applying ultrasound imaging and other approaches to understand the mechanisms underlying islet microvasculature dysfunction and blood flow changes in type1 diabetes. This can also include developing computational models of islet blood flow changes; advancing the use of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in ongoing clinical studies; developing and applying novel ultrasound contrast agents for imaging diagnostics or targeted drug delivery applications; and examining the link between islet blood flow changes and beta-cell electrical activity using intra-vital microscopy.

·       The candidate will also have resources and mentoring to develop their own research interests and to develop new research skills. The candidate can also optionally mentor junior scientists, give guest lectures in the bioengineering graduate or undergraduate program and receive guidance in writing fellowship applications. They must be highly motivated and willing to learn new techniques and approaches, and able to work in an interdisciplinary team of biological scientists, engineers and clinicians.

·       Further details of the Benninger lab can be found at benningerlab.com. For more specific questions about research projects, the nature of the position and duties, or any other enquiries or interest please contact Dr Richard Benninger: richard.benninger@cuanschutz.edu .

Why Join Us:

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is a world-class medical destination at the forefront of transformative science, medicine, education and patient care. The campus encompasses the University of Colorado health professional schools, more than 60 centers and institutes, and two nationally ranked independent hospitals - UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital and Children's Hospital Colorado - that treat more than two million adult and pediatric patients each year. Innovative, interconnected and highly collaborative, the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus delivers life-changing treatments, patient care and professional training and conducts world-renowned research fueled by over $650 million in research grants. For more information, visit www.cuanschutz.edu.

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:

How to Apply:

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

1.     A cover letter describing relevant job experiences as they relate to listed job qualifications and interest in the position

2.     Curriculum vitae / Resume

3.     Three 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: Richard Benninger richard.benninger@cuanschutz.edu

Screening of Applications Begins:

Applications will be accepted until finalists are identified, but preference will be given to complete applications received by 7/31/2023. Those who do not apply by this date may or may not be considered.

Anticipated Pay Range:

The starting salary range for this position has been established as HIRING RANGE:

$ 56,880 to $ 68,604 

The above salary 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.

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.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

·       Ph.D. or equivalent degree in biological or physical sciences, engineering or related field

·       Authorship on at least 1 peer-reviewed research publication.

Desirable Qualifications/Experience:

·       Experience working with rodent animal models, including models of diabetes and performing surgical procedures.

·       Experience in biomedical lab research, including techniques such as live-cell confocal microscopy, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, cell and tissue culture.

·       Experience and knowledge of ultrasound imaging

·       Experience performing numerical modelling of biological processes

·       Experience studying vascular biology, pancreas physiology or diabetes

·       Excellent written and oral communication skills

·       Ability to work independently and in groups, communication with engineers, biomedical researchers and clinicians.

Special Conditions of Employment:

• This position may require occasional extended hours and/or time outside normal working hours.