The School of Dentistry shares the mission of the Oregon Health & Science University to provide educational programs, basic and clinical research, and high quality care and community programs. We strive to foster an environment of mutual respect where the free exchange of ideas can flourish. The dental school prepares graduates in general dentistry and the dental specialties to deliver compassionate and ethical oro-facial health care.

 

Read more about the School of Dentistry: School of Dentistry.

The Biomaterials and Biomechanics Department is seeking a Research Assistant 1 to begin immediately. The successful candidate will be joining an enthusiastic and dynamic group. This position requires research performance consistent with the goals of the principal investigator, Carmem Pfeifer PhD. The lab is very active, with the opportunities to publish papers, submit grant proposals, present at technical meetings, and work with partners in industry and university / government.

 

There are currently several areas of work within my lab which span within the broad field of biomaterials and include the following specific topic areas:

• Design and synthesis of novel polymeric materials for dental and biomedical applications: the major project funded in the lab aims at harnessing ecological interactions within the oral biofilm and host enzyme derived degradation of the tooth substrate to develop novel restorative materials capable of withstanding the challenges posed by the use in the oral environment. These challenges include mechanical loading, bacteria-derived acid demineralization of the tooth, degradation of the material by salivary and bacteria-derived enzymes, as well as substrate degradation by water percolation and host metalloproteinases.
• Test materials under physiological conditions in vitro: material resistance to degradation under physiologically-relevant conditions is the main focus of the development in the lab. Testing includes microbiology assays, mechanical testing and combinations thereof. Polymerization behavior is assessed with spectroscopic techniques, isolated or in tandem with mechanical testing.
• The successful candidate will have experience in material characterization techniques and manuscript preparation. Ability to work independently and contribute ideas is essential. We are looking for a motivated individual, with the mindset of contributing to the group in a meaningful way. Career development training opportunities are plentiful at OHSU, and participation is highly encouraged by the PI. The lab is currently funded through FY 2027 (NIH-NIDCR 1R35-DE029083), and therefore, it is expected that the candidate will be able to be part of the group for at least 2-3 years.

Minimum Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's in any field; OR
• Associate's AND 2 years of relevant experience; OR
• 3 years of relevant experience; OR
• Equivalent combination of training and experience.

Additionally:

• Mechanical testing: universal testing machine (flexural strength, fracture toughness), dynamic mechanical analysis, rheology
• Spectroscopic techniques: IR and UV-Vis
• Manuscript writing experience
• Strong English language skills (writing and speaking) are required
• Must work independently
• Attention to detail and good record-keeping are essential
• Work hours are M-F, 8-5, with occasional after-hours and weekend attendance required

• Master’s degree or higher with major courses in relevant field
• Grant writing experience
• MATLAB
• Additive manufacturing
• Workshop experience

We value each and every one of our professionals by providing a welcoming work environment and industry leading benefits.

 

GENEROUS BENEFIT PACKAGE:

• Comprehensive medical, dental & vision care plans. Covered 100% for full-time employees and 88% for dependents
• $25K of term life insurance provided at no cost to the employee
• Retirement: Choose between pension plan or employee matching voluntary savings plan
• Vacation - Up to 200 hours per year depending on length of service
• Sick Leave - Up to 96 hours per year
• 8 paid holidays per year
• Substantial Tri-met and C-Tran discounts
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Innovative Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Cutting edge Wellness Platform
• Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
• Employee Discounts 

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.


As an organization devoted to the health and well-being of people in Oregon and beyond, OHSU requires its employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.