Research Associate

Job Summary:

Our laboratory studies rare neurometabolic conditions and develops new treatments starting from biochemical knowledge. In this specific project pertaining to the disorder nonketotic hyperglycinemia (also known as glycine encephalopathy), we evaluate the biochemistry in a mouse model, and correlate this with changes found in human patient materials. Based on this, we have been developing two new treatments, with others planned. In the first place, the candidate will be involved in the development of these new treatments so that they will be ready for evaluation in human patients. This involves measuring the changes in key metabolites as they are improved by these new treatments. The candidate will measure metabolite and drug levels to optimize the treatment. The candidate will be involved in developing new modifications to make the interventions more effective. The candidate will evaluate how these new treatments correct the biochemistry for metabolites and enzyme levels. We will develop additional new drugs using biochemical insights, including by high throughput screening with recombinant proteins. Finally, we will prepare for human clinical studies of the new treatments. Another focus of the laboratory are disorders of mitochondrial function. Personnel on both projects are available to provide mutual support.

This position will be responsible for the day-to-day laboratory operations for this project. The selected individual will perform biochemical analyses of tissues from the mouse model and in vitro models of the disease. They will also work to develop new analytical methods to measure important treatment-following parameters. It is possible that this position will be needed to express/purify recombinant proteins or chemically synthesize reagents for the biochemical analytical methods. Maintenance and repair of analytical instrumentation is also required. Other duties outside the lab include data analysis and helping prepare presentations, grants and manuscripts.

Key Responsibilities:

• Measure multiple metabolites, including some that require method development and validation
• Measure key drug interventions, one with existing assay, others with assays to be optimized and validated
• Measure multiple biochemical analytes including metabolites, proteins, enzymes (including in collaboration metabolomics and proteomics)
• Express recombinant proteins as needed for biochemical experiments and drug screening
• Perform pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic measurements working in close collaboration with the personnel doing the animal (mouse) work
• Maintain the analytical instruments in the laboratory, particularly HPLC
• Assist with method documentation, data analysis, manuscript writing and grant writing

Work Location:

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

Why Join Us:

Nonketotic hyperglycinemia (NKH) is a devastating condition for which no new treatment has been developed since 1991. Our laboratory has been the primary research laboratory of this condition in the world. The new treatments being developed in the laboratory offer the first breakthrough opportunity for children with this devastating condition. The person joining the laboratory will be key in bringing these treatments to a place where they can be used to offer real hope for these children in clinical trials. We are a close-knit laboratory that offers a great working environment with a deep impact on the affected patients. Families from all over the world contact the research unit to find hope for their children. This position offers a unique opportunity to be a key part of a major breakthrough in the treatment for this condition, going from concept to real clinical trial application. It provides a supportive environment collaborating with multiple groups on campus to engage in all the aspects of developing a new breakthrough treatment. We strive to make the hopes of these parents a reality. This work provides a perfect example of how biochemistry can lead to life changing new interventions.

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.

• A doctoral degree (PhD) in biochemistry, analytical chemistry, pharmacology or pharmaceutical sciences, or biological science
• One to five experience with biochemical metabolites and/or drug levels using analytical techniques such as HPLC and mass spectrometry, including development and validation of new assays
• One to five experience with measuring enzyme activities
• One to five experience with protein expression and purification

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with analytical instrument repair and maintenance
• Experience with tissue culture
• Experience with recombinant DNA: cloning, mutagenesis, transformation and transfection
• Experience working with mouse models
• Experience with modeling pharmacokinetics,
• Experience modeling protein structure

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to work independently and develop own method with troubleshooting
• Ability to analyze data including statistical analysis
• Ability to write scientific papers
• Ability to work in a small group in close collaboration with various people on campus
• Ability to have good scientific communication
• Good working knowledge of biochemistry and of analytical chemistry needed for assay development and validation

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. Three to five professional references, including name, address, phone number (mobile number if appropriate), and email address

Questions should be directed to: Johan Van Hove at Johan.Vanhove@childrenscolorado.org

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

Screening of Applications Begins:

Immediately and continues until position is filled. For best consideration, apply by 4/30/2025

Anticipated Pay Range:

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

$52,000 - $110,000

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 non-discrimination 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.

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.