Open Rank: (Entry-Senior) Research Services Laboratory Sciences Professional

Job Summary:

This full-time Research Services Laboratory Sciences Professional position is based in the laboratory of Dr. Aaron Michels, which focuses on studying immune-mediated mechanisms of type 1 diabetes and has maintained continuous National Institutes of Health funding for over fifteen years. The role is ideal for an individual with enthusiasm for medical research and an interest in diabetes, who can work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining strong organizational skills. The successful candidate will demonstrate excellent communication, interpersonal, and teamwork abilities, as well as a willingness to learn new laboratory techniques. This position requires the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously with precision, proficiency, and careful attention to detail.

Key Responsibilities (include but are not limited to):

• Isolation and culture of peripheral blood immune cells.

• Conducting experiments utilizing multi-color flow cytometry, measuring cytokines by ELISPOT assays, and performing ELISA techniques.

• Perform recombinant DNA work including genotyping and PCR analysis of T cell receptors.

• Animal care with mice related to research procedures.

• Participation in day-to-day laboratory activities including ordering supplies & reagents, maintenance of laboratory equipment, and preparation of commonly used reagents throughout the laboratory.

• Data organization, management, and database maintenance utilizing Microsoft Word, Excel & Access programs.

• Additional Duties for Senior Professionals:

  • Independently and creatively identify laboratory solutions: evaluates clinic visit lab processing needs and assists the lab coordinator to determine who and when to process program screening samples and clinic visits to ensure timely completion each week.

  • Independently review, propose, develop and implement new or modified laboratory techniques required for research projects: may include proposing more efficient methods or ideas for increased reproducibility of integrity of final product, across all lab staff conducting sample processing.

  • Assist and train junior team members: assists lab coordinator with training of all sample processing protocols, sample pull projects, as well as sample shipping and other lab-related tasks.

Work Location:

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

Why Join Us:

Joining the Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes (BDC) offers the opportunity to be part of a globally recognized leader in type 1 diabetes research and clinical care. Since its founding in 1978, the BDC has grown into one of the largest diabetes institutes in the world, fostering close collaboration among clinicians, clinical researchers, and basic scientists to advance treatment, prevention, and ultimately a cure for type 1 diabetes. Within this dynamic environment, the Michels Laboratory (www.michelslab.com) focuses on uncovering the immune-mediated mechanisms of the disease and has maintained continuous National Institutes of Health funding, reflecting its strong impact and scientific excellence. This position provides a unique chance to contribute to meaningful, collaborative research that directly informs patient care and advances the field.

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:

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

Intermediate Rank:

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

• One year of professional level research experience.

Senior Rank:

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

• Two years or professional level research experience

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience performing 'wet' laboratory assays with human samples and animal related research with mice.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of basic cellular immunology as it relates to type 1 diabetes research

• Experience performing basic cellular immunology laboratory 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.

• Proficient knowledge of basic laboratory techniques including safety procedures and techniques

• Outstanding customer service skills

• Demonstrated commitment and leadership ability to advance diversity and inclusion

• Knowledge of basic human anatomy, physiology medical terminology

• Ability to interpret and master complex research protocol information

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

Questions should be directed to: Aaron Michels, MD (aaron.michels@cuanschutz.edu)

Screening of Applications Begins:

Screening begins on May 29, 2026.

Anticipated Pay Range:

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

• Entry Rank: $47,811 - $64,067

• Intermediate Rank: $52,030 - $69,720

• Senior Rank: $56,249 - $75,373

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:

The University of Colorado (CU) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing non-discrimination 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.

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.