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.

Uncontrolled inflammation generates significant morbidity and mortality in many infectious (e.g. HIV) and non-infectious (e.g. inflammatory bowel disease) diseases. By utilizing non-human primate models of human disease (both viral and non-viral etiology), the Estes Laboratory works to elucidate determinants of local and systemic inflammation leading to tissue pathology, disease progression, and viral reservoir persistence, as well as tests therapeutics to modulate the immune landscape, restore immune homeostasis, and reduce viral reservoirs.  

 

The primary purpose of this position is to assist with sample collection and storage, in addition to database maintenance of current and archival samples.  This position also will assist in histopathology duties in support of the Laboratory’s Scientific Program, including: processing and embedding tissues, microtomy from FFPE tissues, and directed immunohistochemistry.  Other duties include: scanning slides using an array of advance platforms and assisting senior staff with maintaining laboratory equipment (training provided).

 

Imperative characteristics such as attention to detail, manual dexterity, and exceptional organization skills are desired. Applicants must be comfortable handling potentially infections materials.  Experience with microtomy and staining and/or immunohistochemistry are preferred. This is a wonderful opportunity for those interested in a laboratory career in the biological sciences or wanting lab experience in preparation for graduate school.

 

Please note that this position is at OHSU's West Campus (Beaverton). Submit a resume, cover letter, and at least three references to be considered for this position.

 

Education: Bachelor’s Degree (4 yr.) with major courses in field of research/No Experience OR Associate's degree (2 yr.) and 2 years of relevant experience OR 3 years of relevant experience

 

Experience: 

• Must have excellent communication, analytical and organizational skills: both written and verbal.
• Able to perform repetitive tasks with great attention to detail.
• Basic laboratory skills- pipetting, ability to make calculations.
• Comfortable with tissue processing and handling.
• Good manual dexterity.
• Willingness and ability to work flexible hours, able to receive and execute detailed and complex tasks.
• Ability to work on a computer for 5 continuous hours a day. 
• Able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without accommodation.
• Ability to prioritize and execute multiple tasks in a work day.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to always demonstrate the highest level of performance and behavior standards.
• Ability to be honest and straightforward, dealing with issues fairly and consistently.
• Ability to be a team player. Support and assist team members. Be available to help, and learn from the team. Keep an open mind to feedback, and earn trust of staff and providers

Job related skills, abilities and knowledge:

• Must be proficient with computers running Apple and Windows/PC applications (e.g. MS Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint).  
• 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

Experience: 

• Database entry and organization.
• Familiar with whole slide digital imaging.
• Previous experience or education in HIV/SIV disease and research.
• Microtomy experience.
• Prior experience working with non-human primates and/or non-human primate derived specimens.

Job related skills, abilities and knowledge:

• Using and entering information into databases.

• Please note that this position is at OHSU's West Campus (Beaverton).
• Submit a resume, cover letter, and at least three references to be considered for this position.

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.