Research Scientist

University of Colorado Anschutz
Department: Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

Job Title: Research Scientist

Position #: 00845968 – Requisition #:39260

Job Summary:

Our laboratory develops translational models of transplantation and regeneration to study immune responses, neuronal connectivity, and tissue integration in experimental models of tissue transplantation and nerve repair. Current research efforts include the development of experimental models of whole eye transplantation and optic nerve injury to investigate mechanisms of immune rejection, regeneration, and functional recovery.

The Research Scientist will lead and coordinate experimental studies integrating transplant immunology, molecular biology, and surgical animal models. Responsibilities include contributing to experimental design, supervising in vivo and molecular studies, mentoring trainees, and participating in scientific publications and research proposals within a collaborative multidisciplinary research environment.

This project offers the opportunity to contribute to a unique experimental model at the intersection of neuroscience, transplantation, and vision restoration.

Key Responsibilities:

·         Lead and coordinate experimental research studies investigating immune responses, rejection mechanisms, and regenerative processes in transplantation and optic nerve injury models.

·         Design and implement in vivo studies using small and large animal models, including rodent and swine systems.

·         Oversee and conduct molecular and cellular analyses including flow cytometry, ELISA, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and related cell-based assays.

·         Analyze and interpret experimental data and contribute to preparation of scientific manuscripts, reports, and conference presentations.

·         Contribute to the development of research proposals and grant applications supporting laboratory research programs.

·         Recruit, mentor, and train undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral trainees in experimental design and laboratory techniques.

·         Coordinate experimental activities with veterinary staff and research collaborators to ensure compliance with institutional and regulatory standards.

Work Location:

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

Why Join Us:

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 Immunology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, or a related biomedical discipline.

·         Minimum 3-5 years of postdoctoral research experience in transplant immunology, immune rejection mechanisms, or related areas.

·         Demonstrated research experience investigating immune responses in transplantation or related experimental models.

·         Strong publication record with at least 10 peer-reviewed manuscripts with first-author or co-author contributions.

·         Experience working with in vivo experimental models, including large animals.

Preferred Qualifications:

•       Research experience in transplant immunology.

•       Experience studying immune tolerance mechanisms in transplantation models.

•       Training in cellular and molecular mechanisms of immune regulation.

•       Experience mentoring or supervising students or research trainees.

•       Strong collaborative and organizational skills in multidisciplinary research environments.

Preferred Experience:

·         Experience working with large animal models, including swine transplantation or surgical research models.

·         Experience in optic nerve injury, transection, or regeneration models.

·         Expertise in immunological and molecular techniques including flow cytometry, ELISA, immunohistochemistry, immunocytochemistry, and immunofluorescence.

·         Experience supporting or collaborating in surgical experimental models.

·         Familiarity with Good Scientific Practices (GSP), Good Cell Culture Practices (GCCP), and regulatory compliance in animal research.

How to Apply:

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

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

2.    Curriculum vitae / Resume

3.    Five professional references including name, address, phone number, and email address

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

Questions should be directed to: Natalie Burgess, natalie.burgess@ucdenver.edu

Screening of Applications Begins:

Immediately and continues until position is filled. For best consideration, apply by March 15, 2026.

Anticipated Pay Range:

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

$72,000 to $80,000

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.