Research in the field of macular degeneration and inherited retinal degenerative diseases (IRDs) including retinitis pigmentosa (RP), Leber congenital amaurosis and cone-rod dystrophies.  

Specific duties:  The candidate will be expected to establish a high quality research program, establish collaborations as part of a collegial group of basic and clinical researchers, supervise a laboratory team, successfully apply for external grant support, publish manuscripts in high quality journals, and participate in occasional seminars, teaching and mentoring of interns.

 

Specific areas of research to be given highest priority would include:  1) Development of novel IRD disease models in rodents and primates or using human IPSCs; 2) Development of novel therapeutic agents for macular degeneration and IRDs including but not limited to: small molecule agents, gene augmentation, anti-sense oligonucleotides, gene editing and cell-based therapies.

 

The candidate would join a group of highly successful and collaborative researchers and clinician-scientists in the field of retinal disease.  The Casey Eye Institute has extraordinary facilities and resources for research in this area, including the Ophthalmic Genetics Division, a Clinical Trial center currently conducting a dozen IRD clinical trials, the Center for Ophthalmic Optics and Lasers that includes the pioneers in OCT and OCT angiography imaging, high level facilities for small animal research, and close collaboration with the Oregon National Primate Research Center which has state-of-the-art facilities for ophthalmic research in nonhuman primates and the availability of naturally-occurring and gene-edited IRD models.

Education and Experience:  Requires a PhD or MD/PHD in Genetics, Vision Science, Neuroscience or other related field, and background in retinal degenerative diseases.  Three years research and lab experience with IRD models; experience with nonhuman primate models, or strong motivation to conduct such research, is preferred.  Record of high-quality research and publications and success in obtaining grant support.

 

Knowledge and Skills:  Strong research background with skills including genotyping on various platforms, PCR, western blotting, light and electron microscopy, immunohistochemistry, retinal electrophysiology, in-vivo retinal imaging, intravitreal and subretinal injections of gene therapy agents or cell transplantation.  Detail oriented and meticulous in all aspects of work.  Requires excellent organizational skills, strong communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to interact well with employees at all levels of the organization. Innovation, initiative, and creative problem-solving skills are imperative.  Must be pro-active and detail oriented. Ability to work well independently and multi-task is critical.  Ability to plan and organize technical work and to adapt to a changing work environment is critical.  

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.