Research Scientist

University of Colorado; Aurora (CO); On-site; USD 80,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical: Multiple plan options

Dental: Multiple plan options

Retirement 401(a) Plan

Job summary

University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora, CO seeks a Research Scientist to support a basic-translational program focused on lung biology by analyzing high-throughput sequencing data. You will collaborate with bench scientists to design experiments and translate complex datasets into actionable insights.

Responsibilities include developing reproducible pipelines in R/Python, employing Docker, and mentoring trainees.

Qualifications

• Master's degree required in relevant field.
• Four years of HPC data analysis experience required.

Responsibilities

• Design and lead independent and collaborative biomedical research projects on pulmonary biology.
• Analyze multiomics datasets including bulk RNA-seq, scRNA-seq, and spatial transcriptomics using R and Python.
• Develop, optimize, and maintain reproducible computational workflows with Docker and version control.
• Generate publication-quality figures, visualizations, and reports to support discoveries and grants.
• Mentor students, trainees, and junior investigators in bioinformatics and data analysis.
• Publish peer‑reviewed findings and contribute to grant proposals and scientific reports.

Skills

R programming

Python programming

Bioinformatics

Data visualization

Statistical analysis

Education

Master's degree in Bioinformatics, Biostatistics, Computational Biology, Data Science, Computer Science or related field

Tools

Docker

Version control

Workflow automation

Job description

University of Colorado Anschutz

Department of Pediatrics | Section of Neonatology

Job Title: Research Scientist

00848028 – Requisition #:41116

Job Summary

The candidate will support a basic-translational research program focused on lung biology by analyzing high-throughput sequencing data, including bulk RNA-seq, single-cell RNA-seq, and spatial transcriptomics, to investigate gene expression and cellular dynamics in lung development and disease. This role involves close collaboration with bench scientists to design experiments, interpret biological data, and translate complex datasets into actionable scientific insights. The bioinformatician will develop and maintain reproducible computational pipelines, generate clear visualizations and reports, and ensure data integrity across all stages of analysis. The position requires both independent problem-solving and active engagement with the broader research team to advance the lab's scientific goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, conduct, and lead independent and collaborative biomedical research projects focused on pulmonary biology, neonatal lung injury, and translational medicine.
• Analyze and interpret complex multiomics datasets, including bulk RNA sequencing, single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), and spatial transcriptomics data using R, Python, and advanced bioinformatics methodologies.
• Develop, optimize, and maintain reproducible computational workflows utilizing Docker, version control systems, and modern data science best practices.
• Perform statistical analyses and generate publication-quality figures, visualizations, and reports to support scientific discoveries and grant-funded research.
• Create and deploy interactive data visualization tools and web applications using R Shiny and other software frameworks to facilitate data exploration and scientific communication.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including clinicians, biologists, statisticians, and computational scientists to develop innovative research approaches and translate findings into impactful publications.
• Lead manuscript preparation, scientific writing, and presentation of research findings at institutional, national, and international scientific meetings.
• Contribute to the development of grant proposals, research protocols, and scientific reports supporting funded research programs.
• Mentor students, trainees, research staff, and junior investigators in experimental design, bioinformatics, statistical analysis, and computational research methodologies.
• Develop and maintain laboratory databases, data management systems, and data governance practices to ensure data integrity, accessibility, and regulatory compliance.
• Apply machine learning, data science, and computational biology techniques to investigate biological mechanisms and identify novel therapeutic targets.
• Support the design and implementation of laboratory informatics solutions, including database architecture, workflow automation, and user-centered software development.
• Establish standard operating procedures (SOPs) and quality assurance practices to enhance research rigor, reproducibility, and operational efficiency.
• Serve as a subject matter expert in computational biology and bioinformatics, providing consultation on study design, data analysis, and interpretation of high-dimensional biological datasets.
• Foster scientific collaborations across academic and clinical research programs to advance translational and precision medicine initiatives.
• Maintain awareness of emerging technologies, computational methods, and scientific literature to drive innovation and continuous improvement in research programs.
• Publish peer-reviewed research findings as first author and co-author in high-impact scientific journals.
• Contribute to institutional teaching, training activities, and educational programs related to bioinformatics, data science, computational biology, and biomedical research.

Work Location

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

Why Join Us

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is a public education, clinical, and research facility serving 4,500 students and is a world-class medical destination at the forefront of life-changing science, medicine, and healthcare. CU Anschutz offers more than 42 highly rated degree programs through 6 schools and colleges and receives over $757 million in research awards each year. We are the single largest health professions education provider in Colorado, awarding nearly 1,450 degrees annually. Powered by our award-winning faculty, renowned researchers, and a reputation for academic excellence, the CU Anschutz Medical Campus drives innovation from the classroom to the laboratory to the delivery of unparalleled patient care.

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 (based on percentage of time)
• Vacation Days: 22/year (maximum accrual 352 hours)
• Sick Days: 15/year (unlimited maximum accrual)
• Holiday Days: 11/year
• Tuition Benefit: Employees have access to this benefit on all CU campuses
• ECO Pass: Reduced rate RTD Bus and light rail service

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

• Master's degree in Bioinformatics, Biostatistics, Computational Biology, Data Science, Computer Science or related field
• Four (4) years of experience analyzing data using high-performance computing

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

Preferred Qualifications

• 3-5 years of demonstrated experience analyzing large-scale biological datasets, including RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), spatial transcriptomics, and other multiomics data platforms.
• Proficiency in programming and statistical computing, with advanced experience in R and Python, as well as familiarity with reproducible research tools, version control, Docker, and workflow automation.
• Strong record of scholarly productivity, including peer-reviewed publications as first author and/or co-author, scientific presentations, and contributions to collaborative research projects.
• Experience developing research software, databases, data visualization tools, or web-based applications that support scientific discovery, data management, and communication of research findings to diverse audiences.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Expert knowledge of basic statistical principles relevant in medical research
• Expert ability to analyze and solve complex problems and apply quantitative analytical approaches
• Demonstrated fluency in one or more programming languages (e.g., R, Python, Perl, Java, C++) and willingness to learn new programming languages as necessary
• Familiarity with statistical analytical concepts and methods
• Ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and orally

Anticipated Pay Range

The starting salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established as HIRING RANGE: $80,000-$95,000

The above 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 nondiscrimination 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 [e-mail] .

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.