Laboratory Science Professional Entry - Principal

Laboratory Science Professional (Open Rank: Entry - Principal)

University of Colorado Anschutz – Department:
Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics

The Cui Lab () is seeking a Research Services Professional at the Entry, Intermediate, Senior, or Principal level to join our newly established research program. The lab investigates the structural logic of mTORC1 signaling, metabolic regulation, and membrane remodeling using high‑resolution cryo‑electron microscopy, biochemistry, and molecular biology to understand protein complex and small GTPase function on the lysosomal surface. The successful candidate will be a founding member of the lab, providing critical technical and administrative support.

Primary responsibilities include performing molecular biology and biochemistry experiments, maintaining mammalian cell cultures, and managing essential lab operations such as inventory, ordering, and safety compliance. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting‑edge structural biology research while helping to establish the foundational workflows of a new scientific team.

• Experimental Execution: Conduct molecular biology workflows, including cloning, mutagenesis, and plasmid preparation. Perform protein expression and purification using insect or mammalian systems.
• Cell Culture Management: Maintain and manipulate mammalian cell lines, ensuring consistent quality for biochemical and structural studies.
• Structural Biology Support: Assist in the preparation of samples for cryo‑EM and cryo‑ET, and support the maintenance of specialized laboratory equipment.
• Lab Operations: Coordinate daily lab activities, including ordering supplies, managing chemical and biological inventories, and maintaining shared databases (e.g., plasmid and cell line registries).
• Safety & Compliance: Serve as the primary point of contact for Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) to ensure the lab remains in full regulatory compliance.
• Collaboration: Work closely with the PI and postdoctoral fellows to design and optimize experimental protocols.

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 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

• Entry: $46,274 - $58,861
• Intermediate: $50,357 - $64,054
• Senior: $54,440 - $69,248
• Principal: $62,606 - $79,635

• Bachelor's degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, genetics or related field.
• Professional level research experience requirements:
  Entry – none;
  Intermediate – 1 year;
  Senior – 2 years;
  Principal – 3 years.

• Master's degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, genetics or related field.
• More than one year of experience in an experimental or wet laboratory, including protein purification and laboratory logistics management.

• Expert knowledge and advanced troubleshooting of laboratory techniques, including safety procedures and specialized instrumentation.
• Strong communication skills in writing and speaking.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with colleagues at all levels.
• Outstanding facility user service skills.
• Ability to interpret and master complex research protocol information.
• Higher-level knowledge of Structural Biology, Instrumentation, and Computational Biology processes and technologies.

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.