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 Research Assistant 2 provides technical and operational support for in vitro translational research studies involving models of retinal and neurodegenerative disease. Working under the supervision of the Senior Research Project Manager and principal investigators, this position performs a variety of biomedical research-related tasks primarily focusing on mammalian stem cell generation, culture/maintenance and differentiation into several relevant retinal cell lineages and gene editing. Secondary tasks will include animal tissue collections from necropsies, along with processing, preservation and biobanking. The incumbent will also assist with day-to-day laboratory operations and ensures that experimental procedures are performed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with OHSU and ONPRC regulatory standards.

 

Key Responsibilities & Performance Standards:

 

Laboratory and Research Support:
Conduct mammalian stem cell culture studies which includes, generation, maintenance, differentiation and cryopreservation of multiple cell lines. These in vitro experiments will also include aspects of cell line characterization via immunofluorescence and karyotyping, gene editing, flow cytometry, and preparation of lines for cell transplantation studies.

 

Sample Processing and Data Entry:

Collect, label, and process blood and tissue samples according to biosafety and IACUC-approved procedures. Enter and organize data into laboratory databases and spreadsheets, ensuring completeness, accuracy, and compliance with data-quality standards.

 

Equipment and Supply Management:

Maintain inventory of laboratory supplies, reagents, and equipment. Assist with ordering and organization of materials required for ongoing studies. Ensure workspaces and instruments are cleaned, calibrated, and in compliance with safety and quality-control standards.

 

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):

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to follow detailed experimental protocols accurately
• Competence with standard computer applications (Excel, Word, data entry)
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills
• Ability to work safely with biological samples and laboratory equipment

Registrations, Certifications and/or Licenses:

• Completion of all OHSU/ONPRC animal-care and laboratory-safety training before beginning independent work.

Compliance:

• Adherence to all OHSU and ONPRC policies for animal care, biosafety, and occupational health.

• Commitment to ethical research conduct and accurate record-keeping.

Education:

• Master’s degree in biology, neuroscience, biomedical sciences, or a related field.

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, neuroscience, biomedical sciences, or a related field, OR equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience:

• 2-4 year’s experience working with mammalian stem cell derivation/culture and differentiation, flow cytometry, CRISPER/Cas9 gene editing techniques, immunology, immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy.  

• Minimum of two (2) years of laboratory or research experience in a biomedical, behavioral, or life-sciences setting.

• Demonstrated experience performing mammalian cell culture and aseptic technique. Familiarity with animal tissue handling or collection, data collection, and compliance with safety and biosafety procedures

Job Related Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (Competencies):

• Familiarity with statistical software or data visualization tools
• Knowledge of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and quality-control practices
• Basic understanding of research ethics, animal welfare, and compliance documentation

WORKING CONDITIONS: 

• The Research Assistant 2 works primarily in a biomedical research laboratory at the Oregon National Primate Research Center (ONPRC).
• Work schedule is 40 hours/week, generally 8-5, Monday through Friday.  Schedule will also include nonstandard hours (nights/weekends) as required by experimental studies.
• The position involves daily exposure to laboratory equipment, biological samples, and animal research settings, including nonhuman primates.
• Work requires strict adherence to biosafety, animal welfare, and environmental health regulations, as well as the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as lab coats, gloves, masks, and eye protection.
• All duties must be performed in compliance with OHSU and ONPRC safety standards to ensure the health and well-being of personnel and animals

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & EQUIPMENT USAGE: 

• This position requires regular standing, walking, bending, reaching, and lifting while working in laboratory and animal research environments.

• The incumbent must be able to lift and carry up to approximately 25 pounds, perform fine motor tasks, and handle small instruments, laboratory supplies, and biological specimens with precision.

• The Research Assistant 2 will routinely use laboratory instruments and research equipment, including pipettes, centrifuges, microscopes, and biosafety cabinets. Basic computer use for data entry and record keeping is also required.

• Proper use of PPE is required at all times. Work must be conducted in accordance with institutional safety, ergonomic, and animal welfare standards.

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.