The Oregon National Primate Research Center (ONPRC) is located 12 miles west of the OHSU main campus, and sits on 162 acres of land featuring forested areas, research and administration buildings, indoor and outdoor animal housing, and 2-mile perimeter walking path. Our mission is to improve human health and the quality of life through the support of nonhuman primate research programs that advance our knowledge of the causes, preventions, treatments, and cures of debilitating diseases

The purpose of this research position is to support ongoing activities in a placenta-focused research lab using in vivo animal models and in vitro cell and tissue culture models. This position requires a hardworking, dedicated individual who can work independently. This person will spend much of their time working in the lab and a small portion working directly with nonhuman primates to obtain samples. Laboratory work will focus on tissue culture and maintenance, analyses of biological samples by ELISA and qPCR, among other molecular and immunohistochemical methods. This position will also contribute to routine laboratory duties such as solution preparation, sample collection material preparation, data entry/reporting, analysis and problem solving, as well as general lab maintenance. NHP work will involve coordination of pregnancy and surgery requests, animal assignments, sample processing and tissue collection at necropsies. Good communication skills and the ability to interact effectively with ONPRC investigators/staff and collaborators as well as excellent organizational skills are necessary. Computer experience in Microsoft Word and Excel required.  

 

Key Responsibilities & Performance Standards:

 

1. Contribute to and participate in placental tissue culture and maintenance. Work under supervision to carry out lab techniques and assays.

 

2. Work hands on with nonhuman primates. Duties will include assisting with sample and tissue collection

 

3. Assist in research support procedures including, but not limited to: Scheduling and organizing animal studies, prepare and autoclave various laboratory solutions and media.  Process and disposal of biohazard and chemical waste as well as disposal of autoclaved materials following standard laboratory protocols. Maintain overall laboratory cleanliness and assist others in the laboratory with their procedures.

 

4. Contribute data to written reports, abstracts, project proposals and presentations.

Education:

• 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

Job Related Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (Competencies):

• Ability to communicate effectively in both written and oral formats
• Ability to work both independently and in a small group setting, and one-on-one with collaborators  in a positive and productive manner, and to work efficiently and skillfully with a variety of diverse staff and collaborators
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point, and graphics software
• Organizational and time management skills sufficient to prioritize work demands, and to coordinate and document research and work protocols with other staff
• High level of self-motivation and integrity.

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Biology or related field

Experience:

• Experience in molecular techniques e.g., qRT-PCR

• Relevant research experience in a laboratory setting

• Cell or tissue culture experience

• Processing of biological samples.

Job Related Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (Competencies):

• Training in the use of biohazard materials and experience in the maintaing of biohazard materials

• Competence to perform data management and analysis of research finding, including use of spreadsheets, graphics and statistical programs. Ability to contribute to written scientific reports.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Work schedule is primarily Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with some flexibility required to accommodate work needs
• Work is performed in both a laboratory and animal handling settings, which carry a potential risk of exposure to chemicals, biohazard materials, dry ice, and low-level radioactivity
• Zoonotic agents through injury, by direct contact with animals or their tissues and body fluids, or by contact with equipment contaminated by animals or their tissues and body fluids

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & EQUIPMENT USAGE:

• Ability to lift and move objects weighing up to 40 lbs
• Ability to stand for several continuous hours

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.