Colorado State University
Classification Title
Temporary Hourly
Employment Category
Temporary
Is this an Hourly position?
Yes
Work Hours/Week
0-40
Overtime Eligible?
Yes
Position Location
Fort Collins, CO 80523
Does this position qualify for hybrid or remote work?
No
Description of Work Unit
The Orthopaedic Research Center at the Department of Clinical Sciences at Colorado State University under the direction of renowned equine arthroscopic surgeon and orthopaedic researcher Dr. Laurie Goodrich and is known worldwide for joint problem prevention and healing research in the horse with some recently expanded work in human athletes. A dedicated group of senior scientists, graduate and post-doctoral students continue to answer critical questions about orthopaedic health in horses and humans.
Search Contact Email
cvmbs-
Position Summary
The Research Associate will support the mission of the Orthopaedic Research Center (ORC) by conducting advanced biochemical and molecular biology-based experiments, as well as histology and immunohistochemistry techniques. This position supports and expanding the equine orthopaedic research services by maintaining high standards in laboratory procedures, training, and research protocol development.
Key Responsibilities
Perform a wide range of laboratory techniques, including:
Biochemical and molecular biology assays
DNA/RNA extraction
Basic and real-time quantitative PCR
ELISA assays
Protein gel electrophoresis and western blot analysis
Cell culture (mammalian, stem cell, and tissue explants)
Histology techniques and immunohistochemistry
Implement and refine standard operating procedures (SOPs) and research protocols.
Ensure compliance with SOPs and research standards in all experimental processes.
Collaborate with faculty and senior researchers to support ongoing and new research projects focused on joint disease prevention and healing.
Provide guidance and training to DVM students, residents, interns, technicians, and graduate students in laboratory skills and best practices.
Monitor quality control and manufacturing processes for diagnostic testing materials used within ORC and in collaboration with the Translational Medicine Institute (TMI).
Assist in the supervision of student-led research, ensuring adherence to protocol and scientific rigor.
Participate in strategic decision-making related to laboratory improvement, new service offerings, and resource allocation.
Position Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field
AND
3+ years of relevant professional experience, including: Conducting biochemical and molecular biology-based laboratory experiments Performing histology techniques and immunohistochemistry Hands-on experience with basic molecular and biochemical assays, such as: Basic PCR and real-time quantitative PCR DNA/RNA extraction Cell culture (mammalian, stem cell, and tissue explants) ELISA assays Protein gel electrophoresis and western blot analysis Demonstrated ability to learn and apply new techniques and assays OR A recent Master's degree in a relevant field PLUS The ability and willingness to work in a clinical setting and in the arena of live animal studies are essential. and willingness to work in a clinical setting and in the arena of live animal studies is essential Good written and verbal communication skills and laboratory record keeping experience Experience writing up progress/summary reports, present data in a table or graphical formats, draft material, and methods sections. Preferred Qualifications Demonstrated experience with light/fluorescence microscopy, basic histology, immunohistochemistry, and live animal studies Posting Details Working Title ORC Lab Associate Posting Number T Department Clinical Sciences Salary Range $29 Employee Benefits Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it's a thriving community that's transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact. Review our detailed benefits information here. Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here. For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator. Close Date 08/15/2025 Special Instructions to Applicants CSU is committed to full inclusion of qualified individuals. If you are needing assistance or accommodations with the search process, please reach out to the listed search contact.
References will not be contacted without prior notification to candidates. Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution. Background Check Policy Statement Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so. EEO Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Essential Job Duties Job Duty Category Lab Training and Research Administration Duty/Responsibility Training graduate and undergraduate students in the general laboratory and on specific laboratory protocols, including hazardous waste management and use of radiation. Oversight and managing of these students when they are in the lab and assisting with their research projects. Collaborating with other PIs in the department and university. Aiding in the submission of manuscripts of completed research. Percentage Of Time 70 Job Duty Category Research Assistance Duty/Responsibility Assist the principal investigator(s) for the Orthopaedic Research Center Laboratory Space, which will involve regulatory approvals and maintenance (hazardous waste, biosafety, etc.), chemical and safety management, ordering, equipment maintenance and cleaning, and supply stocking of laboratory areas. Percentage Of Time 30 References Minimum References Required 3 Maximum References Required 3
AND
3+ years of relevant professional experience, including: Conducting biochemical and molecular biology-based laboratory experiments Performing histology techniques and immunohistochemistry Hands-on experience with basic molecular and biochemical assays, such as: Basic PCR and real-time quantitative PCR DNA/RNA extraction Cell culture (mammalian, stem cell, and tissue explants) ELISA assays Protein gel electrophoresis and western blot analysis Demonstrated ability to learn and apply new techniques and assays OR A recent Master's degree in a relevant field PLUS The ability and willingness to work in a clinical setting and in the arena of live animal studies are essential. and willingness to work in a clinical setting and in the arena of live animal studies is essential Good written and verbal communication skills and laboratory record keeping experience Experience writing up progress/summary reports, present data in a table or graphical formats, draft material, and methods sections. Preferred Qualifications Demonstrated experience with light/fluorescence microscopy, basic histology, immunohistochemistry, and live animal studies Posting Details Working Title ORC Lab Associate Posting Number T Department Clinical Sciences Salary Range $29 Employee Benefits Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it's a thriving community that's transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact. Review our detailed benefits information here. Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here. For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator. Close Date 08/15/2025 Special Instructions to Applicants CSU is committed to full inclusion of qualified individuals. If you are needing assistance or accommodations with the search process, please reach out to the listed search contact.
References will not be contacted without prior notification to candidates. Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution. Background Check Policy Statement Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so. EEO Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Essential Job Duties Job Duty Category Lab Training and Research Administration Duty/Responsibility Training graduate and undergraduate students in the general laboratory and on specific laboratory protocols, including hazardous waste management and use of radiation. Oversight and managing of these students when they are in the lab and assisting with their research projects. Collaborating with other PIs in the department and university. Aiding in the submission of manuscripts of completed research. Percentage Of Time 70 Job Duty Category Research Assistance Duty/Responsibility Assist the principal investigator(s) for the Orthopaedic Research Center Laboratory Space, which will involve regulatory approvals and maintenance (hazardous waste, biosafety, etc.), chemical and safety management, ordering, equipment maintenance and cleaning, and supply stocking of laboratory areas. Percentage Of Time 30 References Minimum References Required 3 Maximum References Required 3