Post Doctoral Fellow

University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus

Department: Ophthalmology

Job Title: Post Doctoral Fellow

Position #00827952 - Requisition #35065

Job Summary:

Nature of Work

ExoSight -The Human Stem Cells Exosome Lab within CellSight, the Ocular Stem Cell and Regeneration Program at the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, is seeking a highly motivated, talented, and creative scientist with expertise in stem cells, molecular biology and/or exosomes to join our team. We are seeking full-time (1.O FTE) Postdoctoral Fellows to carry out research in the areas of retinal biology, stem cell technologies, and regenerative medicine.Our mission. The long-term goal of the research carried out by the ExoSight team is to contribute to a better understanding of the early events involved in early Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD). Dry AMD begins with the appearance of drusen, and the lack of therapies responds, to a certain extent, to our little understanding of the formation of drusen. To overcome this problem, our studies seek to understand how little vesicles, called exosomes, secreted by RPE, and containing lots of cellular bioproducts, are delivered from unhealthy RPE and contribute to drusen formation and AMD progression. We provided evidence for a possible active role of exosomes released by RPE in drusen biogenesis. Furthermore, due to the exosome capacity to travel through different biofluids and since their cargo changes under pathological conditions, exosomes could give us the key to diagnosing AMD early and successfully treating it.



Our lab applies stem cell differentiation (organoids and RPE), genome editing, confocal microscopy, extracellular vesicles, and OMICs approaches to understand the early stages of AMD. The successful candidate will play a key role in investigating the molecular mechanism(s), and pathways involved in AMD progression, developing innovative models of AMD, and evaluating novel potential therapeutic and diagnosis strategies. We are a culture of collaboration and scientific freedom, and we believe in the values of diversity, inclusion, and belonging to inspire innovation. For more information about our research, please visit: ExoSight Lab https://lnkd.in/ga97V9nE



Our lab is part of the CellSight team https://lnkd.in/eWu3zv9. Established in 2017, CellSight is a world-renowned research Program comprised of a cross-disciplinary team of investigators working in a highly collaborative environment with the common goal of preventing vision loss caused by AMD.

The successful postdoctoral fellows will lead specific research projects aimed at: (1) developing innovative models of retinal degenerative diseases, (2) understanding the molecular mechanisms associated with disease, and (3) evaluating novel potential therapeutic strategies. This is an exciting, new line of work using cutting-edge technology in the stem cell field and we are looking for motivated and independent scientists willing to contribute their expertise and knowledge. There is no direct patient care or contact involved in this position. Main responsibilities include developing and carrying out research projects using stem cell culture and retinal organoid tissues along with cell, developmental and molecular biology techniques. Duties include publishing and communicating research results in both oral and written formats and assisting with the training and mentoring of students and technicians.

Key Responsibilities:

• Designing and planning research studies
• Performing experiments using human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) cultures, retinal organoid tissues, and other molecular, developmental and cell biology techniques as needed
• 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 conferences

Work Location:

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

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.

Why work for the University?

The University of Colorado offers a comprehensive benefits package. To see what benefits are available for Post-Doctoral Fellows, please visit:

Payroll & Benefits Orientation for Post-Doctoral Fellows | University of Colorado (cu.edu)

benefits guide cover-post-doc-2024 (cu.edu)

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. In addition, the Anschutz Campus has also been recognized as an Age-Friendly University. 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 MD/PhD or PhD in a relevant biomedical science discipline

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience in vision science research
• Experience with stem cell culture techniques, 3D organoid differentiation
• Experience with cell, developmental, and molecular biology techniques
• Understanding the pathophysiology of retinal degenerative diseases
• Training in the use of animal models of visual impairment
• Training in ocular surgical procedures and follow up post-operative assessment
• A strong publishing 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:

• Excellent communication skills using the English language.
• Able to troubleshoot, design experiments, and collaborate amongst peers.
• Ability to follow and maintain protocols when handling hazardous materials.
• Able to work independently within a large collaborative environment.

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:

Immediately and continues until position is filled. For best consideration, apply by December 2, 2024.

Anticipated Pay Range:

The starting salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established as HIRING RANGE (minimum - 40th posting max):

Career Level

Years of Experience

Stipend for FY 2024

Postdoctoral

0

$61,008

Postdoctoral

1

$61,428

Postdoctoral

2

$61,884

Postdoctoral

3

$64,356

Postdoctoral

4

$66,492

Postdoctoral

5

$68,964

Postdoctoral

6

$71,532

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 may be eligible for overtime compensation, depending on the level.

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@cuanschutz.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.