Research Services Entry Professional

Job Summary:

The Janiszewska Lab is seeking a full-time Professional Research Assistant to begin on or after 4/1/2026.

One of the major challenges contributing to poor survival of patients with brain tumors is the intratumor heterogeneity. Cancer cells with different properties, including different sensitivity to treatment, often co-exist within a tumor, leading to relapse and disease progression. Our goal is to understand the dynamics of intratumor heterogeneity and its functional implications in disease progression in highly aggressive brain tumors. We believe that understanding the interactions between subclonal populations of cancer cells as well as interactions between cancer cells and cells of tumor microenvironment holds a key to uncovering more effective treatments for brain tumor patients.

The lab employs a variety of techniques, including confocal microscopy, spatial transcriptomics and in vitro and in vivo models to study brain tumor cell-cell interactions and the organization of the cancer ecosystem.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to research aiming to improve the dismal prognosis for brain tumor patients.

Key Responsibilities / Duties: (There should be 10+ duties, and duties should be grouped under a section header collectively; the section headers add up to 100%)

All levels:

* 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 the 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

* Review and implement lab support policies, practices and programs to meet organizational, operations and management needs

* Ensure compliance with applicable laws, rules and regulations; receive guidance and direction or escalate when required

Work Location:

Onsite - this role is expected to work onsite and is located in Aurora, Colorado.

Why Join Us:

The Department of Neurosurgery is a highly collaborative unit, with faculty excelling in clinical care, research, education and innovation, working together to advance the fields of neuro-oncology and neuromodulation. The crosstalk between the clinical and basic research allows the scientists to work on projects with high translational potential. Access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, as well as shared Core Facilities across the CU Anschutz Medical Campus enable performance of cutting-edge science. The Department's strong commitment to education provides multiple opportunities for career and skill development for staff, residents and fellows. The interdisciplinary collaborations fostered within the Cancer Center and across the broad community of University of Colorado provide a vibrant environment to train in neuro-oncology and neuroscience.

The Janiszewska lab dissects the ecosystem of aggressive brain tumors to identify novel vulnerabilities of these incurable tumors. We strive for highly collaborative and inclusive lab environment. Trainees will have ample opportunities to interact with researchers in the department, across our campus and with external collaborators.

Why work for the University?

We have AMAZING benefits and offer exceptional amounts of holiday, vacation and sick leave! The University of Colorado offers an excellent benefits package including:

* Medical: Multiple plan options

* Dental: Multiple plan options

* Additional Insurance: Disability, Life, Vision

* Retirement 401(a) Plan: Employer contributes 10% of your gross pay

* Paid Time Off: Accruals over the year

* Vacation Days: 22/year (maximum accrual 352 hours)

* Sick Days: 15/year (unlimited maximum accrual)

* Holiday Days: 10/year

* Tuition Benefit: Employees have access to this benefit on all CU campuses

* ECO Pass: Reduced rate RTD Bus and light rail service

There are many additional perks & programs with the CU Advantage.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

* Entry Level

o Bachelor's degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, genetics or related field

* A combination of education and related technical/paraprofessional experience may be substituted for the bachelor's degree on a year for year basis

*Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

Preferred Qualifications:

* Entry Level

o Master's degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, genetics or related field

Competencies, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

* Laboratory knowledge base

o Entry level has basic knowledge of 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

For full consideration, please submit the following documents:

* A letter of interest describing relevant job experiences as they relate to listed job qualifications and interest in the position

* Curriculum vitae/Resume

* Three to five professional references, including name, address, phone number (mobile number if appropriate), and email address

Questions should be directed to: Sarah Williams, sarah.williams@cuanschutz.edu

Screening of Applications Begins:

Immediately and continues until position is filled. For best consideration, apply by 5 days after posting

Anticipated Pay Range:

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

* Entry Level: $46,274-$58,861

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 may be eligible for overtime compensation, depending on the level.

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

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

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.

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@cuanschutz.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:

CU Anschutz strongly encourages vaccination against the COVID-19 virus and other vaccine preventable diseases. If you work, visit, or volunteer in healthcare facilities or clinics operated by our affiliated hospital or clinical partners or by CU Anschutz, you will be required to comply with the vaccination and medical surveillance policies of the facilities or clinics where you work, visit, or volunteer, respectively. In addition, if you work in certain research areas or perform certain safety sensitive job duties, you must enroll in the occupational health medical surveillance program.