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 successful applicant will be heavily involved in the development of assays to support the laboratory’s primary research goals.  This applicant will be trained on various research techniques such as cell isolation, microtomy, and use of manual and automated staining platforms (i.e. intelliPATH and Bond RX), in addition to advance approaches such as multiplexed in situ hybridization (ISH) and protein immunofluorescence, spatial transcriptomics, and multispectral imaging.  Prior experience with aspects of standard histological techniques (e.g. microtomy and staining) is preferred; experience with RNAscope ISH technology is desired.  This position will also be involved with annotations and analysis in HALO Digital Pathology software and graphing data in Prism (training provided).  Knowledge of R scrip or other coding platforms is preferred.  Additionally, this individual will also work in collaboration with other members of the laboratory to support in-vivo experiments for a variety of projects, which may involve handling and processing of non-human primate samples and human clinical trial samples.

This position receives general supervision. Performs standardized, routine procedures and/or tests, and/or collects, abstracts, enters and/or analyzes data, and reports work done. Innovation and problem solving expected. Some design of experiments or research procedures to achieve project objectives desirable. The position will include analysis of immune cells, and therefore background in immunology, ideally in HIV/SIV, is desirable. Opportunities for promotions and publication in top academic journal is available for this position.  This is a wonderful opportunity for those interested in a laboratory career in the biological sciences or those looking for 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.

• Bachelor’s Degree (4 yr.) with major courses in field of research/No Experience OR
• Associate's degree (2 yr.) and 3 years of relevant experience OR
• 4 years of relevant experience
• Must have basic laboratory skills- pipetting, ability to make calculations.
• Comfortable with tissue processing and handling.
• Ability to prioritize and execute multiple tasks in a work day.
• Must have excellent communication, analytical and organizational skills: both written and verbal.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Must possess energy and drive to coordinate multiple projects simultaneously.
• Being collaborative in completing projects and resolving problems
• 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 in microtomy
• Knowledge of multiplexed immunofluorescence and in situ hybridization based methods.
• Previous experience or education in HIV/SIV disease and research.
• Familiar with whole slide digital imaging.
• Prior experience working with non-human primates and/or non-human primate derived specimens.
• R script or coding experience.
• Experience/Knowledge of preparing cryostat sections, immunohistochemistry, imaging using an array of platforms; serum, plasma and mononuclear cell isolation

Registration, Certifications or Licenses: Histotechnician, HT (ASCP), Histotechnologist, HTL (ASCP) certified and/or Medical Technologist, MT (ASCP)

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.