Research Assistant

Oregon Health & Science University; Portland (OR); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Opportunities for advancement

Inclusive work environment

Research opportunities

Job summary

A leading research institution in Oregon is seeking a Research Assistant to contribute to studies on genetic neurological disorders. The ideal candidate will have a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, with strong skills in molecular biology and lab techniques like DNA sequencing. Responsibilities include conducting experiments, maintaining mouse colonies, and ensuring compliance with safety protocols. This position offers opportunities for professional growth in a dynamic research environment that values diversity and inclusion.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in relevant field or equivalent experience.
• Knowledge of molecular biology and relevant lab techniques preferred.
• 1-2 years of hands-on experience in chemistry or bio lab preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory experiments under supervision.
• Maintain breeding colonies of experimental mice.
• Collect and verify accuracy of data for studies.
• Operate scientific equipment and perform maintenance.
• Assist in lab operations and compliance with safety procedures.

Skills

Basic lab skills

Independence

Attention to detail

Molecular biology techniques

DNA sequencing

Education

Bachelor's degree in a relevant field

Associate's degree with 3 years of relevant experience

4 years of relevant experience

Tools

PCR

Western blot analysis

Fluorescent microscopy

Light microscopy

Job description

Department Overview

A lab within the department of Molecular and Medical Genetics (MMG) is hiring a Research Assistant. MMG encompasses numerous research faculty, fellows, and students with diverse research interests surrounding molecular and medical genetics approaches to understanding the basis and treatment of human disease.

The role of this position is to participate in studies exploring the biochemical and molecular bases of genetic neurological disorders. The ideal applicant has a bachelors degree, basic lab skills and willingness to learn mouse & cell handling. Background in molecular biology with additional training in biochemistry, genetics, neuroscience, or pathology is preferred. Enthusiasm, independence and attention to detail are essential.

A key responsibility in the lab includes DNA sequencing and mouse colony maintenance. This job demands excellent organization skills and a working knowledge of PC and Mac computers. Work in the lab is translational by its nature, offering terrific opportunities to move between basic and clinical science.

Function/Duties of Position

• Plans, conducts, and completes laboratory experiments under the supervision of the head of the laboratory. Performs primary molecular genetic techniques including PCR, DNA electroporation, Western blot analysis, fluorescent and light microscopy, plasmid preparation, DNA sequencing and studies of gene expression.
• Maintains breeding colonies of experimental mice and is responsible for genotyping, pre- and post-surgical care and monitoring. Keeps and maintains records of animals and required documentation for compliance with The Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee.
• Collects records, organizes and verifies the accuracy of data. Conducts literature searches and summarizes information in an appropriate format for a particular study; Documents and interprets results of experiments and reports to principal investigator. Presents experimental results at lab meetings and participates in journal and research group meetings.
• Operates a variety of instruments and scientific equipment, and is responsible for quality control and maintenance of equipment. Assists with experiments and assays, preparing solutions, collecting and entering data, maintaining databases, assuring compliance with established safety procedures and maintaining required documentation. Assignments require the performance of complex test procedures and a variety of technical approaches.
• Assists in the daily operation of the lab including hazardous waste disposal, sterilization of equipment, cleaning glassware, general servicing of equipment and ordering lab supplies, and preparation of media and buffers.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• 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.

Preferred Qualifications

• 4-year degree with molecular biology background.
• 1-2 years of experience, including hands on experience in chemistry or bio lab.
• Knowledge of DNA Sequencing, mouse husbandry, and molecular biology techniques.

Why apply to OHSU?

We are Oregon's only public academic health center. In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington.All are welcome. OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply. To request reasonable accommodation, contact [e-mail]