Research Associate

University of Colorado

Department: Cell and Developmental Biology

Job Title: Research Associate

Position #00845713 – Requisition #39184

Job Summary:

The lab of Dr. Ally Nguyen in the Department of Cell and Developmental Biology at the University of Colorado School of Medicine is seeking a Senior Laboratory Scientist to join our team. This is a senior-level position for a PhD-holding scientist who will serve as a key leader in the lab, maintaining independent research directions within the broader theme of genome regulation while also contributing to the overall management and mentorship mission of the lab. Our lab investigates how the requirements for proteins involved in core cellular processes can differ significantly across cellular contexts, including across cell types, within disease states, and across species. We are focused on identifying selectively required genes, particularly those involved in cell division and the maintenance of genomic integrity and leveraging these differences as a key to unraveling their function. We are also driven to uncover these selectively required genes because they serve as attractive candidates for targeted therapeutics, genes that could act as an “Achilles heel” for cancer cells while minimizing off-target effects on healthy tissues. To approach this, we use targeted and large-scale CRISPR/Cas9-based gene editing approaches in mammalian cell lines, combined with cell biological and molecular techniques.

The successful candidate will be expected to develop and lead independent research projects within the lab’s focus on genome regulation. In addition to their own research, this individual will play a critical role in the day-to-day management of the lab, including overseeing lab operations, and mentoring junior trainees such as graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and research assistants. We value a collaborative, team-based approach to science, and the Senior Laboratory Scientist will be expected to foster that environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Research

•       Develop and maintain independent research directions in genome regulation within the broader scope of the lab

•       Design and execute experiments using mammalian cell lines, including embryonic cell types

•       Perform and optimize CRISPR/Cas9 gene knockout screens and targeted gene editing

•       Conduct high-resolution microscopy experiments

•       Carry out plasmid design, molecular cloning, and transduction experiments using viral vectors

•       Analyze and interpret data, and contribute to manuscript preparation and grant writing

Lab Management

•       Oversee general lab operations, including purchasing, inventory management, and equipment maintenance

•       Coordinate onboarding and training of new lab members

•       Ensure compliance with safety protocols and institutional regulations

•       Help manage lab budget and resource allocation in coordination with Dr. Nguyen

Mentorship

•       Mentor and provide day-to-day guidance to junior trainees, including graduate students, postdocs, and research assistants

•       Assist trainees with experimental design, troubleshooting, and data interpretation

•       Foster a collaborative and supportive lab culture

Work Location:

Onsite – this role is expected to work onsite and is located in Aurora, CO

Why Join Us:

Dr. Nguyen recently opened her lab in the Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, where her research seeks to understand how cells organize and segregate their genomes and how these processes change across diverse cellular contexts. In addition to cutting edge research, Dr. Nguyen highly values mentoring and teaching and has thought deeply about how to create an environment where scientists can grow and gain independence. We are dedicated to developing a research program that not only strives to answer fundamental questions at the forefront of genome biology, but that is inclusive and provides an opportunity for trainees from all backgrounds to succeed and reach their individual and unique goals. As part of this we strongly believe that great science does not occur in isolation and are looking for dedicated and collaborative individuals to join our team. This position offers the opportunity to pursue meaningful independent research within a collaborative and supportive lab environment. The Senior Laboratory Scientist will have a direct impact on the scientific direction of the lab and the professional development of its members.

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 (based on percentage of time)
• Vacation Days: 22/year (maximum accrual 352 hours)
• Sick Days: 15/year (unlimited maximum accrual)
• Holiday Days: 11/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:
Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

• PhD in cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, or a related field

• Demonstrated research experience in genome regulation, genome integrity, or a closely related area

• Strong track record of independent research, including publications in peer-reviewed journals

• Experience with mammalian cell culture and molecular biology techniques

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience with CRISPR/Cas9-based gene editing and screening approaches

• Expertise in high-resolution microscopy

• Experience mentoring or supervising junior researchers

• Experience with lab management, including budgeting, ordering, and equipment oversight

• Familiarity with viral vector-based transduction systems

• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

How to Apply:

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

1.     A letter of interest describing their research interests and relevant experience and why applicants are specifically interested in joining our research group.

2.     Curriculum vitae

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: Ally Nguyen, Ally.Nguyen@cuanschutz.edu

Screening of Applications Begins:

Immediately and continues until March 7, 2026.

Anticipated Pay Range:

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

$62,873 to $86,000

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

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

The University of Colorado (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@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:

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.