Research Associate - CellSight

Join to apply for the Research Associate - Cell Sight role at University of Colorado

Cell Sight, the Ocular Stem Cell and Regeneration Research Program at the Department of Ophthalmology, seeks several full-time (1.0 FTE) Research Associates to carry out research in retinal biology, stem cell technologies, and regenerative medicine. Cell Sight is a cross‑disciplinary team of investigators working in a highly collaborative environment with a common goal of developing novel stem cell–based therapeutics to treat ocular diseases.

For more information about research performed by Cell Sight teams please visit:
Cell Sight Program.

The successful candidates will develop an innovative regenerative strategy to treat retinal degenerative diseases using cutting‑edge stem cell technology. This is an exciting, new line of work within the stem cell field and we are looking for motivated and independent scientists with technical expertise and knowledge.

• Design, plan, and conduct research studies from inception to completion.
• Perform experiments using human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) cultures, retinal organoid tissues, and other molecular, developmental, and cell biology techniques.
• Analyze and interpret research results.
• Maintain effective communication with the principal investigator and other team members.
• Keep an organized record of research experiments and results.
• Assist in the training and mentoring of students and technicians.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication in scientific journals.
• Participate in lab meetings and attend scientific seminars and conferences.

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

• 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

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with an MD/PhD or PhD in a relevant biomedical science discipline.
• Minimum of 3 years of research experience in vision science.

• Previous experience with stem cell culture techniques.
• Previous experience in 3D organoid differentiation, retinal organoids.
• Strong understanding of the pathophysiology of retinal degenerative diseases.
• Expertise in retinal pigment epithelium and photoreceptor physiology, including interphotoreceptor matrix composition and function.
• Expertise in retinal electrophysiology, ERG and ORG.
• Experience performing retinal surgeries and follow‑up post‑operative evaluation.
• Previous experience in working with hydrogel platforms for cell delivery.
• Experience with cell, developmental, and molecular biology techniques.
• A strong publishing record.

• Strong team player with excellent customer service and interpersonal skills and the ability to work with a diverse group and competing interests.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to effectively explain processes and procedures.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills with the ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and work under tight deadlines.
• Flexibility and the ability to adapt to various situations.
• Ability to take direction and use independent judgment to complete assigned tasks.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Analytical and reasoning ability.
• Ability to represent the department and University in a professional manner with tact and diplomacy.

• A letter of interest describing relevant job experiences as they relate to listed job qualifications and interest in the position.
• Curriculum vitae / Resume.
• Five professional references including name, address, phone number (mobile number if appropriate), and email address.

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

Questions should be directed to:
Ashley Woodhouse