Post-Doctoral Fellow

Job Summary:

Nature of Work:

The department of Ophthalmology at the University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, seeks a full-time (1.O FTE) Postdoctoral Fellow to conduct research on the biochemical mechanisms of secondary cataracts and neurodegeneration in glaucoma. The translational research aims to develop innovative therapies to save vision from secondary cataracts and glaucoma.

• The successful postdoctoral fellow will lead specific research projects aimed at (1) understanding the role of lens capsule in secondary cataract formation (2) understanding the molecular mechanisms by which lens capsule protein modifications induce lens fibrosis by transforming lens epithelial cells to myofibroblast-like cells (3) evaluating novel therapeutic strategies to prevent secondary cataract formation and (4) evaluating peptide and viral gene therapy methods in preventing retinal ganglion cell death in glaucoma. There is no direct patient care or contact involved in this position. The main responsibilities include developing and carrying out research projects using cell, developmental, biochemical and molecular biology techniques. Duties include publishing and communicating research results in both oral and written formats and assisting with the training and mentoring students and technicians.

Professional Field

Biomedical Sciences

Supervision Received

The Postdoctoral Fellow will receive direction and training in carrying out duties and responsibilities by Prof. Ram Nagaraj, Ph.D.

Examples of Work Performed

The responsibilities for this position include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Designing and planning research studies
• Performing experiments using human and rodent lens capsular bags.
• Cell culture experiments using human and rodent lens epithelial cells and retinal ganglion cells
• Conduct animal experiments to induce secondary cataracts and glaucoma, determine biochemical changes, and evaluate the efficacy of drugs.
• Analyze samples by biochemical methods, which include LC-MS/MS and HPLC.
• Analyzing and interpreting research results.
• Maintaining effective communication with the investigator and other team members
• Keeping an organized record of research experiments and results
• Assisting in the training and mentoring of students and technicians
• Preparing manuscripts for publication in scientific journals
• Participating in lab meetings and attending scientific seminars and conference

Work Location:

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

Why Join Us:

The Department of Ophthalmology is housed in the Sue Anschutz-Rodgers Eye Center on the Anschutz Medical Campus. This state-of-the-art facility is one of the largest eye centers in the country and serves not only patients in the Rocky Mountain region but also patients all over the world.

The technological innovations conceived and developed by departmental faculty have changed the practice of eye care throughout the world. Our educational programs train the next generation of leaders in ophthalmology. Our specialists have developed national and international reputations for excellence in routine and complex ophthalmic care. We have invested heavily in tracking our clinical outcomes and we are proud that our clinicians perform at the highest levels in their respective fields.

The mission of the Department of Ophthalmology is to be a nationally recognized department of ophthalmology by providing exemplary patient care founded on educational leadership, innovative research, and high ethical standards

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.

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Ph.D. in a relevant biomedical science discipline

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience in vision science research, preferably secondary cataracts
• Experience with cell, developmental, and molecular biology techniques
• Training in the use of animal models of visual impairment
• Training in ocular surgical procedures and follow-up post-operative assessment
• A strong publication record.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Proven ability to work independently and effectively with others as part of a team

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong team player with excellent customer service and interpersonal skills and has 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, 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.

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: Ashley Woodhouse ashley.woodhouse@cuanschutz.edu

Screening of Applications Begins:

Applications will be accepted until finalists are identified, but preference will be given to complete applications received by August 12, 2024. Those who do not apply by this date may or may not be considered.

Anticipated Pay Range:

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

$61,008-$61,884

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.