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.

The Estes Laboratory combines cutting-edge multi-omics platforms with traditional immunohistochemistry techniques to understand how local and systemic inflammation promote tissue pathology as well as disease progression. We utilize several non-human primate models of highly relevant human diseases, including HIV and inflammatory bowel disease, to additionally test therapeutics designed to modulate the inflammatory landscape, restore immune homeostasis, and reduce viral reservoirs.  

 

This position includes initially-supervised design of experiments and/or research procedures, with increasing independence over time, as well as the direct training and indirect supervision of junior researchers. Successful individuals will be/become proficient in basic histology research techniques, such as manual and automated staining platforms (e.g. intelliPATH and Bond RX), in addition to advanced approaches such as multiplexed in situ hybridization (ISH) and protein immunofluorescence, spatial transcriptomics (e.g. nanoString GeoMx and CosMx, Akoya PhenoCycler Fusion), fluorescent imaging, and image analysis (e.g. Indica Labs HALO). Additionally, this individual will support in vivo non-human primate studies, which may include coordinating with collaborators, scheduling procedures, collecting specimens, and processing tissue samples. Expectations include: 1. performance of routine procedures as well as development of novel techniques in which innovation and problem solving are required, 2. collection, analysis, and abstraction of data, 3. establishing SOPs, 4. Increasing independence, including indirect management of a small team of junior researchers, and 5. reporting of work performed, in written form and as oral presentations in both small-group and large-group settings.

 

Prior experience with histology, IHC, IFM, and/or RNAscope ISH technology is desired. A background in immunology, ideally in HIV/SIV or M. tuberculosis, is strongly preferred. Additionally helpful is knowledge of R script or other coding platforms. Opportunities for promotions and publication in top academic journals are routine.  This is a wonderful opportunity for those interested in a laboratory career in the biological sciences or desiring additional preparation for eventually pursuing an independent research position. 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: 

• Doctoral degree in relevant field and 5+ years of relevant post-doctoral work experience

Experience:

• Comprehensive experience at the scientist level in all aspects of standard laboratory operations and scientific programs
• Possess energy and enthusiasm to independently progress on multiple research projects simultaneously, including prioritizing and executing multiple tasks each day
• Exemplify solid leadership to support and assist team members, including mentoring and receiving feedback from the team, as well as earning the trust of staff
• Excellent written and verbal communication, analytical, and organizational skills
• Personify a collaborative nature in completing projects and resolving problems
• Comfortable with primate research and tissue processing
• 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

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).

Education: 

• Doctoral/postdoctoral research experience in SIV/HIV or M. tuberculosis

Experience: 

• Previous experience or education in HIV/SIV and/or M. tuberculosis disease and research
• Prior experience working with non-human primates and/or non-human primate derived specimens
• Knowledge of / experience with multiplexed immunofluorescence and in situ hybridization based methods
• R script or coding experience

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.