Laboratory Program Manager

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly organized and motivated Laboratory Program Manager to join a pulmonary biology research group dedicated to understanding the mechanisms of pulmonary fibrosis.

Our laboratory utilizes a multi-disciplinary approach, combining high-content imaging, patient-derived lung organoids, and single-cell sequencing with in vivo mouse models of lung injury to identify novel therapies and therapeutic targets. The Laboratory Program Manager will serve as the operational hub of the lab, balancing advanced bench work with essential administrative duties. Primary technical responsibilities include the management of a transgenic mouse colony (breeding, maintenance, and genotyping), the generation and maintenance of patient-derived organoids, and execution of standard molecular biology techniques and additional advanced imaging if desired. Administratively, this role is responsible for maintaining strict biosafety compliance, developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), managing purchasing and inventory, reconciling budgets across various funding sources, and providing direct supervision and mentorship to a future Laboratory Technician.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct cell culture experiments, including isolation and maintenance of primary cells and immortalized cell lines.

• Perform molecular biology techniques, such as DNA and RNA extraction, PCR, and preparation of cells for single-cell sequencing.

• Mouse colony management including genotyping, breeding, and record-
  keeping.

• Support lab operations by preparing reagents, maintaining inventory, ordering supplies, and ensuring a clean and organized workspace.

• Maintain accurate and detailed records of experimental procedures and results using multiple tools as well as laboratory inventory and cryogenically preserved samples/cell lines.

Work Location:

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

Why Join Us:

The Scott McCall Laboratory at CU Anschutz Medical School and the School of Medicine is seeking a motivated Laboratory Manager to support our work at the interface of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Stem cell biology, and drug discovery. Our lab uses cutting-edge molecular and cellular techniques, imaging, and pharmacology to uncover the mechanisms of disease-emergent cellular change in Pulmonary Fibrosis, discover underlying biology from patient-derived samples, and develop the next generation of therapies.

This position offers an excellent opportunity to expand hands-on research experience in a highly collaborative and multidisciplinary environment driven by patient-derived samples. We are particularly interested in candidates with experience in cell culture, molecular biology techniques, and mouse handling, as well as strong organizational skills to assist and manage lab operations. This role is ideal for experienced scientists interested in innovative and multidisciplinary science and seeking to expand expertise and stand up a well-organized and efficient laboratory environment. Candidates who will excel in this role are adaptable, independent and enthusiastic. Because of the scope of work we do, there is tremendous opportunity for technical growth. 

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%25 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:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, genetics or related field.

• Four (4) years of professional level research experience.

  • An advanced degree (Masters or Doctorate) may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis if the degree is in a field of study directly related to the work assignment.

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in biology, pharmacology, immunology, or a related field.

• Three (3) or more years of wet-lab experience in an academic or biotechnology setting.

• Experience managing transgenic mouse colonies, including complex breeding schemes and genotyping.

• Hands-on experience with 3D cell culture systems (organoids/spheroids) or primary epithelial cell isolation.

• Previous experience in a supervisory or lab management role that included ordering and budget tracking.

• Experience with and knowledge of basic grant structures (e.g., NIH mechanisms) and fund accounting principles to effectively reconcile budgets.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Expert knowledge of laboratory techniques including safety procedures and techniques.

• Expert ability to analyze and solve complex problems.

• Ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and orally.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees at all levels throughout the institution.

• Outstanding customer service skills.

• Knowledge of basic human anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology.

• Ability to interpret and master complex research protocol information.

• Comprehensive understanding of molecular biology, lung physiology, and sterile tissue culture techniques.

• Working knowledge of Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) regulations, Institutional Review Board (IRB) protocols for human subjects, and BSL-2 safety standards.

• Advanced proficiency in mammalian cell culture, DNA/RNA extraction, PCR/qPCR, and sample preparation for sequencing.

• Skilled in rodent handling, restraint, injection (IP, IV, etc.), and tissue harvest.

• Proficiency with laboratory management software (e.g., for inventory or colony management), Microsoft Excel (for budgets), and basic statistical or image analysis software.

• Ability to independently troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and experimental inconsistencies.

• Ability to manage multiple conflicting timelines (e.g., mouse weaning schedules vs. long-term cell culture) without compromising data integrity.

• Ability to mentor junior staff effectively, delegate tasks, and foster a collaborative laboratory environment.

• Capacity to learn new technologies quickly (e.g., new single-cell sequencing platform requirements or different imaging approaches) and adapt to shifting research priorities.

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: A Scott McCall, scott.mccall@cuanschutz.edu

Screening of Applications Begins:

Immediately and continues until position is filled. For best consideration, apply by March 31^st, 2026.

Anticipated Pay Range:

The starting salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established as $65,328 – $83,098.

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

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

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, 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@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.