Research Assistant 2 - Oregon Health & Science University

Department Overview:

The Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute (VGTI) at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) has assembled a multidisciplinary team of scientists to respond to serious viral disease threats, including AIDS, chronic viral infection-associated diseases, newly emerging viral diseases and infectious diseases of the elderly. Our programs are intended to span the continuum between basic and clinical science, in which discoveries are rapidly advanced from the level of molecular and cellular biology through animal models and ultimately into clinical testing. The development of this unique program in immunology and virology provides an important training opportunity for graduate students and postdoctoral fellows at OHSU. This is why an important part of our mission is the training of young scientists in newer academic disciplines emerging at the Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute.

Function/Duties of Position:

This individual will be responsible for specific sections of ongoing and newly funded projects using non-human primates in the study of the immune system, immunodeficiencies, infectious diseases, and specific pathogen free non-human primate projects for the Smedley Lab, located on the West Campus of OHSU. They may have responsibility for overseeing labs or research units, collecting and processing animal tissues, and preparation of written reports and, as applicable, regulatory documentation. They may assist with necropsies and sample collection and processing of terminal tissue samples. They may provide technical and administrative support for principle investigative staff of the Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute, ONPRC, and the Experimental Pathology Unit to ensure research timepoints are coordinated and performed efficiently. Coordinate with the veterinary, animal care, and surgical staff to facilitate project expectations, schedules, and progress, and in some cases to facilitate social environmental enrichment of non-human primates. They will also be responsible for various general lab support duties, including maintenance of laboratory supplies and equipment, autoclaving, and disposal of waste.

• Willingness to work with pathogens potentially dangerous to humans
• Willingness to work in Biosafety Level 2 and 3 facilities
• Willingness and ability to work flexible hours
• Ability and willingness to work independently
• Ability to carry and lift 35 lbs.
• Ability to stand for three continuous hours a day
• Ability to work on computer for five continuous hours a day
• Able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without accommodation

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's in relevant field OR
• Equivalent combination of training and experience
• Has a minimum of 3 months of laboratory experience in molecular/cellular biology, animal, and/or invivo research.
• Ability to communicate effectively, including use and meaning of scientific terminology, in both written and oral formats;
• Ability to work both independently and in a small group setting;
• Working knowledge (6 months relevant work experience) of Microsoft Excel, Word.
• Demonstrated independence and competence to perform data management and analysis of research finding, including use of spreadsheets, graphics and statistical programs;
•  Ability to interact in a positive and productive manner, and to work efficiently and skillfully with a variety of diverse staff;
• Ability to prioritize work demands, and coordinate research protocols with other staff;
• Organizational skills and careful attention to details to satisfactorily perform job duties requiring  procedural steps to be consistent and completed fully and timely.
• Detailed record keeping, cataloging of samples, data entry and statistical analysis, laboratory maintenance, autoclaving and use of sterile techniques.  

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor degree in Biology, Zoology, Animal sciences, immunology or pathology.
• 1 year laboratory work experience performing immunoassays and cell separation techniques.
• Experience assisting with necropsy in non-human primates.
• Experience administering drugs and  medication to non-human primates.
• Maintaining inventories of laboratory supplies and equipment; experience with geriatic or immune compromised and ABSL3  with non-human primates.
• Preferred current Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) license.

All are welcome:Oregon Health & Science University values a diverse and culturally competent workforce. We are proud of our commitment to being an equal opportunity, affirmative action organization that does not discriminate against applicants on the basis of any protected class status, including disability status and protected veteran status. Individuals with diverse backgrounds and those who promote diversity and a culture of inclusion are encouraged to apply. To request reasonable accommodation contact the Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Department at 503-494-5148 or aaeo@ohsu.edu.