The Research Assistant 2 will work in the lab of Dr. Rose Hill in the Department of Chemical Physiology & Biochemistry (CPB) at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU).  The responsibilities of this position will involve performing and supporting research on interoception and kidney physiology. In the past, we found that sensory nerves innervate key structures within the kidney. Recently, we are interested in testing the function of these nerves in health and disease using modern neuroscience approaches in mice, including but not limited to: in vivo calcium imaging of sensory neuron activity, optogenetic manipulation of sensory nerve activity with monitoring of kidney function, perturbation of renal sensory nerve function in animal models of kidney disease and inflammation, and histological and anatomical characterization of renal sensory nerves. The successful candidate will work at least one project and will have training, interest, and/or a background in neuroscience and/or physiology. The successful candidate may at times be tasked to assist a postdoctoral fellow and/or graduate student with a portion of their independent project. A significant part of the position will also be to conduct and supervise activities related to the breeding, maintenance, and genotyping of the laboratory’s transgenic mouse colony.

• Under general supervision, performs research experiments and analyzes results for projects within the lab.
• Contributes to the development of experimental procedures and standard operating procedures within the lab, including animal use protocols.
• Maintains an accurate lab notebook and mouse colony records.
• Maintains lab equipment and supplies and assists with ordering.
• Performs animal husbandry tasks, including but not limited to: setting up breedings, weaning mice, obtaining DNA samples, and genotyping.
• Other responsibilities as assigned by the supervisor in furtherance of the university’s missions and goals of teaching, research, patient care, outreach and public service.

• 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

• Ability to communicate effectively, in both written and oral formats. 

• Ability to work both independently and with others in a positive and productive manner. 

• Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point, and GraphPad Prism software. 

• High level of self-motivation and integrity.

• Organizational skills and careful attention to details to satisfactorily perform job duties.

• Ability to prioritize work assignments and cordially coordinate use of research equipment and laboratory space with other staff.

• At least 1 year of relevant research experience in a laboratory setting.
• Exposure to neuroscience, cell biology, and/or molecular biology techniques.
• Experience with making laboratory solutions and keeping experimental records.
• Experience with rodent handling.
• Experience with animal procedures, including: behavioral testing, surgeries, injections.
• Experience with troubleshooting PCR, molecular cloning, and/or mouse genotyping protocols.
• Experience with immunohistochemistry and/or histology
• Experience with light microscopy
• Specific expertise in relevant scientific disciplines. Specific expertise in relevant scientific disciplines.

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.