The Kelleher lab is part of the Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences at the Oregon National Primate Research Center (ONPRC). The ONPRC is located 12 miles west of the OHSU main campus, and sits on 162 acres of land featuring forested areas, research and administration buildings, indoor and outdoor animal housing, a pond, and 2-mile perimeter walking path. Our mission is to improve human health and the quality of life through the support of nonhuman primate research programs that advance our knowledge of the causes, preventions, treatments, and cures of debilitating diseases.

The Senior Research Assistant will support the ongoing studies in pregnant and neonatal nonhuman primates (NHPs) and other animal models, including models of intra-uterine infection, preterm labor and perinatal brain injury. This position requires a hardworking, dedicated individual who can work independently and be responsible for the management of NHP experiments, laboratory inventory and supervision of other lab members and trainees/students. Knowledge of reproductive science, neuroscience and/or microbiological techniques is highly desirable.

The duties of this position will include, coordination and scheduling of NHP studies, working directly with pregnant and neonatal NHPs, laboratory-based experiments and other duties as required. NHP work will involve sedation and monitoring, observations, sample collection, behavioral testing and tissue collection at necropsies. In addition, this role includes research support and management of the Neonatal Intensive Care Nursery as it relates to current and new animal experiments/models. A dedication to high-levels of animal care and welfare is required.

Laboratory work will include experimental setup and analysis of biological samples by microbiological culture techniques, bacterial inoculation, dilution, standardization, PCR and identification of bacterial growth in culture, in addition to molecular and immunohistochemical analyses and routine laboratory duties such as ordering, solution preparation, data entry/reporting, statistical analysis and troubleshooting/problem-solving in order to complete experimental aims.

• Bachelor's in relevant field AND 1 year of relevant experience OR Equivalent combination of training and experience
• Ability to communicate effectively, in both written and oral formats
• Ability to work both independently and in a small group setting, and one-on-one with collaborators in a positive and productive manner, and to work efficiently and skillfully with a variety of diverse staff and collaborators
• Ability to supervise and train staff and students
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Adobe Photoshop or other graphics software
• Demonstrated independence and competence to perform data management and analysis of research findings, including use of spreadsheets, graphics and statistical programs
• High level of attention to detail
• Ability to contribute to written scientific reports
• Ability to prioritize work demands, and coordinate research protocols with other staff
• Organizational skills and careful attention to detail to satisfactorily perform job duties
• Laboratory management and quality control skills
• Organizational and time management skills sufficient to prioritize work demands, and to coordinate and document research and work protocols with other staff
• Work is performed in both the laboratory setting with the potential risk of exposure to potentially hazardous chemicals and dry ice and in areas where there is potential risk of exposure to zoonotic agents through injury, by direct contact with animals or their tissues and body fluids, or by contact with equipment contaminated by animals or their tissues and body fluids
• Able to lift/move equipment/animals weighing up to 40 lbs.
• Ability to physically perform tasks involving handling, moving, or restraint of animals, collection of samples, administration of treatments, and other procedures (this may include moving on wet and/or slick surfaces, through narrow corridors, between rows of cages)
• High level of self-motivation and integrity
• Able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without accommodation

• Bachelor’s with major courses in field of research and 1 to 3 years of relevant experience
• 3 years relevant research experience in a laboratory setting
• Experience maintaining and managing inventories of laboratory supplies and equipment
• Training in the use of biohazard materials and experience in the maintaining of biohazard materials
• Ability to conduct independent and collaborative research, with demonstrated experience in problem-solving
• Experience with animal models for use in research
• Experience in designing, planning and conducting scientific experiments, with reference to correct use of controls, specific techniques and statistical analysis

 

Apply here online. Please be sure to upload a cover letter, CV/resume and references.

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.