A position is open for a full-time technician in the lab of Dr. Tafesse in the Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology at OHSU. Our laboratory studies to understand how pathogens use host factors to secure invasion, persistence, and propagation. We are especially interested in studying the roles of cellular lipids in bacterial and/or viral pathogenesis and their significance on innate and adaptive immunity. The main microbes we study include the bacterium M. tuberculosis and viruses such as SARS-CoV-2, flaviviruses (Zika virus, Dengue virus, etc.) and HIV. We employ new chemical probes such as multi-functional lipid analogs to investigate the mechanisms and pathways that control viral and bacterial pathogenesis.
Under the direction of the PI and research staff, the candidate is expected to independently carry out daily activities of the laboratory:

• Perform microscopy, phagocytosis and other molecular and biochemical techniques (cloning, microscopy, tissue culture, flow cytometry, etc)
• Generate CRISPR/cas9 knockout cell lines (design sgRNA sequences, generate cell line that expresses Cas9, isolate clones and characterize knockout candidates, confirm the efficiency of the mutation following different techniques including Surveyor assay and genome sequencing
• Independently perform routine and non-routine experiments which are moderate to complex
• Ensure quality control of equipment, reagents, and cellular components  
• Ordering and inventory of laboratory supplies and reagent/sample logs.

• Perform microscopy, phagocytosis and other molecular and biochemical techniques (tissue culture, protein purification, etc).
• Generate CRISPR/cas9 knockout cell lines (design sgRNA sequences, generate cell line that expresses Cas9, isolate clones and characterize knockout candidates, confirm the efficiency of the mutation following different techniques including Surveyor assay and genome sequencing.
• Ensure quality control of equipment, reagents, and cellular components.

• Bachelor's in relevant field OR
• Associate's AND 3 years of relevant experience OR
• 4 years of relevant experience OR
• Equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Must be able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without accommodation.

• Bachelor’s Degree (4 yr)  with major courses in field of research/Immunology
• 0-4 years research wet lab experience at undergraduate level
• Good organizational skills and excellent attention to details.
• Must be willing to learn and grow.
• Excellent documentation skills.
• Ability to perform as a team member; must possess good interpersonal skills.

Personnel will need to work at lab benches, desks and/or microscopes for up to 4 hours at a time. Ability to perform repetitive lab manipulations (gripping, grasping, reaching, twisting), move lab equipment under 25 lbs with accommodation, perform image analysis operation and help others with equipment use. Personal protective equipment must be worn as required. (Gloves, mask/respirator, eyewear, lab coat, dosimeter, etc). Additional safety training is required to work with cell lines/ infectious bacteria or viruses/ working with in a BSL-2 environment. Use of dosimeter and adherence to radiological safety ordinances is required. Working with laboratory animals is required.

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.