Instructor

Job Summary:

Instructor position available in the Department of Pharmacology at CU Anschutz. Seeking a motivated researcher to work at the intersection of cell biology, optogenetic and chemical genetic tools, and cell quality control during cell health and disease. Projects include developing molecular tools for cell control and studying how cells maintain functional protein assemblies while preventing aggregation.

Key Responsibilities:

Design, execute, and troubleshoot experiments related to the lab goals.

Carry out research independently and in collaboration with lab members.

Train and oversee graduate and undergraduate students.

Perform experiments in yeast and mammalian cells. Techniques include tissue culture, western blotting, DNA analysis, live cell imaging, and cloning.

Analyze data and interpret experimental results.

Communicate results of experiments in written publications and oral presentations.

Work Location:

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

Why Join Us:

The lab is working on developing cutting-edge new synthetic biology tools to enable transformative experiments in a variety of biomedical fields. Work includes the optogenetic development of switchable proteins that respond to light cues, allowing us to control events in cells at precise times and locations. We provide an exciting and positive research environment for exploring the biomedical research field and making a direct impact on human health.

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

Ph.D. degree in related field of biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, or biology.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior research experience in related area beyond PhD training

• Excellent written and oral communication skills

• Ability to communicate well and collaborate with lab members and PI.

• Ability to compile results into publication-ready formats

• Ability to work independently driving a research program.

• Strong critical/analytical thinker

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Experience developing molecular tools and optogenetics

• Experience with advanced confocal imaging methods including FRAP

• Experience with biochemical analysis and cell biology

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: Chandra Tucker, chandra.tucker@cuanschutz.edu

Screening of Applications Begins:

Immediately and continues until February 18, 2026.

Anticipated Pay Range:

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

$70,000 to $77,000

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

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 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.

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.