Postdoctoral Research Fellow

Job Summary:

A 2-year postdoctoral position with the possibility of extension is available in the Keestra-Gounder Lab, located in the Department of Immunology and Microbiology at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. The postdoctoral fellow will work on a project aimed to investigate microbiota-activated NOD2 and MDA5-mediated innate immune responses in the intestinal tract during Coxsackievirus B3 infection. The preferred candidate has a doctorate degree (and be within 5 years of this degree at the time of taking up the position), and has a background in microbial pathogenesis and/or innate mucosal immunology with a strong publication record. This individual will be expected to utilize genetic, molecular, cellular, biochemical, immunological and in vivo approaches, and to initiate new scientific directions at the interface of virology and immunology. The successful candidate will work with the principal investigator to develop the research project and prepare presentations and manuscripts.

Key Responsibilities:

• Pursues research goals established by the Principal Investigator. Responsible to the Principal Investigator for all aspects of planning, developing, operating, recording, and reporting of assigned research projects. Participates actively in designing, developing, executing and troubleshooting a wide variety of laboratory procedures under the supervision of the Principal Investigator. Performs experimental investigations with considerable independence on a day-to-day basis.
• Has or acquires the skills needed to accomplish assigned research goals, including, but not limited to, extensive techniques in molecular biology (RNA analysis and manipulation, RNA and reagent design, DNA cloning, quantitative RT-PCR, etc.), virology (virus infection, cell cultures, use of bacterial genetics and recombination, etc.), biochemistry (production, purification and characterization of DNA, RNA, proteins or other biomolecules, bioinformatics (both basic bioinformatic analysis and interfacing with bioinformatics specialists), and immunology.
• Collaborates with other researchers to accomplish major research goals. Trains and supervises laboratory student workers, medical or graduate students, professional research assistants, or other laboratory personnel as assigned by the Principal Investigator.
• Accurately collects and records experimental data and analyses data independently or in conjunction with other research staff. Ensures that reagents (such as molecular constructs, plasmids, bacterial strains, cell lines, etc.) that are generated are properly documented, maintained, and stored in the common laboratory database.
• Analyzes and prepares research data in appropriate formats for presentation at scientific meetings, for publication in proceedings, books, and peer-reviewed journals, and for use in grant applications, and participates regularly in departmental seminars, journal clubs, research-in-progress meetings and meetings of the laboratory group.

Work Location:

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

Why Join Us:

The Department of Immunology and Microbiology encompasses a broad range of research and teaching activities focused on basic mechanisms of host immune responses, viral and bacterial pathogenesis, and the intersection of these two fields. Working in the Department of Immunology and Microbiology offers the opportunity of professional growth in a vibrant academic and scientific environment.

The University of Colorado offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, life insurance, retirement plans, tuition benefits, ECO pass, paid time off - vacation, sick, and holidays and more. To see what benefits are available, please visit: https://www.cu.edu/employee-services/benefits-wellness.

Diversity and Equity:

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is committed to recruiting and supporting a diverse student body, faculty and administrative staff. The university strives to promote a culture of inclusiveness, respect, communication and understanding. We encourage applications from women, ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, persons within the LGBTQ+ community and all veterans. The University of Colorado is committed to diversity and equality in education and employment.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:
Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

• PhD degree in immunology, virology and/or bacteriology, or a related field prior to starting this position. Candidates in the final stages of completing their doctoral level degree are eligible to apply.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Published work in a peer-reviewed journal.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work in team.
• Experience in mouse models of infection and processing mouse and/or human cells and tissues.
• Experience with flow cytometry and analysis of flow cytometry data.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Proficient knowledge of basic laboratory techniques including safety procedures and 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
• 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. Five 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: Marijke Keestra-Gounder, Marijke.Keestra-Gounder@cuanschutz.edu

Screening of Applications Begins:

Immediately and continues until position is filled. For best consideration, apply by September 15, 2024.

Anticipated Pay Range:

The initial salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been set to start at least at the minimum level specified by the current NIH NRSA for 0 years of experience, which is:

$61,008 - $61,428.

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

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.