University of Colorado

Research Scientist

University of Colorado$85K — $105K *
Healthcare
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • PhD in Developmental Biology, Molecular Biology, or related life sciences field
  • Four years' experience in academic research
  • Three to five years' experience in translational or clinical research environments preferred
  • Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals
  • Prior involvement in grant applications or research funding acquisition

Responsibilities

  • Lead translational research programs on neonatal lung development and disease
  • Design and analyze in vivo studies using animal models
  • Apply advanced experimental techniques, including molecular biology assays and tissue imaging
  • Develop new lab protocols and train research staff
  • Contribute to scientific manuscripts and grant applications
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary research teams
  • Support lab operations and ensure regulatory compliance

Benefits

  • Onsite work location in Aurora, CO
  • Opportunity for mentorship and collaboration in a specialized field
  • Engagement in impactful pediatric research tackling significant health issues
  • Supportive environment for career advancement and scientific innovation
  • Generous leave, health plans, and retirement contributions
Full Job Description
Department of Pediatrics | Section of Neonatology

Job Title: Research Scientist



Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly accomplished and innovativeResearch Scientist with knowledge in developmental biology, pulmonary research, and vascular biology. The ideal candidate will bring a strong track record of scientific discovery, publication, and mentorship, with specialized experience in neonatal lung disease, endothelial biology, and sex-based biological differences.

This role will contribute to advancing translational and preclinical research programs, driving scientific innovation, and supporting the development of novel therapeutic insights in pediatric pulmonary disease.

Key Responsibilities:
• Lead and execute translational research programs investigating mechanisms of lung development and disease, particularly in neonatal population
• Design, conduct, and analyze in vivo studies using relevant animal model
• Apply advanced experimental approaches, including:

o Molecular and cellular biology assay

o Tissue and organ imaging (confocal, lightsheet microscopy)

o Transcriptomic and bioinformatics analyses (single-cell, spatial profiling preferred)
• Develop and implement new laboratory protocols, technologies, and workflows, train research staff, graduate students, and trainee
• Contribute to manuscripts, grant applications, and scientific presentation
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams across basic science and clinical research
• Support day-to-day lab operations and ensure compliance with regulatory standard

Work Location:

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

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.
• PhD in Developmental Biology, Molecular Biology, or related life sciences field
• Four (4) years' experience in academic research setting

Condition of Employment:
• Must successfully pass a drug test through Children's Hospital Colorado
• Must be willing and able to pass a national criminal background check

*For questions regarding Children's Hospital drug testing requirements, please contact Children's Human Resources at 720-777-8598. Some positions may require testing if access to Children's Hospital or their systems is needed at any time during employment with the University. If drug testing is required, it will be listed in the job posting.

Preferred Qualifications:
• Three to five (3-5) years' experience in translational or clinical research environments, particularly pediatric or pulmonary medicine
• Familiarity with omics technologies (single-cell RNA-seq, spatial transcriptomics)

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals, including high-impact publication
• Prior involvement in grant applications or research funding acquisition

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 addre

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

Questions should be directed to: Diane Hitchcock [email protected]

Screening of Applications Begins:

Immediately and closes June 23, 2026.

Anticipated Pay Range:

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

$85,000 - $105,000

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

About University of Colorado

The University of Colorado is a public research university system with four campuses in Colorado: Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs, and Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora. The University of Colorado was founded in 1876 and is the flagship institution of the University of Colorado system. The university offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs in a wide range of fields, including business, engineering, law, medicine, and the arts and sciences. The University of Colorado is a member of the Association of American Universities and is classified as an R1: Doctoral University ? Very high research activity by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.
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