Senior Research Assistant

As a Senior Research Assistant, this position will be responsible for contributing to ongoing research projects in the Center for Embryonic Cell and Gene Therapy. This includes assisting in studies related to genetic, epigenetic and transcriptomic analyses of gametes, embryos and pluripotent stem cells. Participate in iPS derivation and characterization, stem cell culture and primary cultures; mouse in vivo and in vitro experiments; cellular and molecular assays. Participate in purchasing of equipment and supplies and communicating with scientific and support staff.   Perform a variety of duties, which require flexibility, judgment, and unique experience in the field of cell therapy. Contribute to written reports, abstracts, project proposals and grants, and presentations. Appointee will participate in the on-call schedule including intermittent evening, weekend, and holiday coverage.

Research:

• Cell Culture: derivation, culture, characterization and differentiation of pluripotent stem cells, day to day maintenance of cell cultures, freeze and thawing cell cultures, maintain cell culture records, order reagents, supplies and media; make reagent solutions, culture media; routine equipment maintenance, laboratory analysis by molecular, histological, and immunocytochemical methods.
• Provide assistance in studies on mitochondrial biology and epigenetic and genetic signatures of pluripotent stem cells, DNA, RNA and protein sample processing, preparation of media, general sterile cell culture.
• laboratory upkeep, (manual and computerized). Assist in planning of experimental design and data analysis.
• Expand cell banks and establish novel pluripotent stem cell lines from various sources including SCNT, parthenogenesis, direct reprogramming (iPS cells).
• Perform various molecular techniques such as DNA prep, PCR, Immunocytochemistry.
• Animal related research procedures such as mice injection, mice tissue collection, derivation of mouse embryonic fibroblast cells, teratoma injection and analysis, and assisting in mouse colony maintenance.

Data Collection/Data Analysis/Record Keeping:   

• Collect scientific data pertinent to the research projects; keep records of information obtained during research (which may include database searches)
• Maintain records in computerized database for cell lines cryopreserved for future use. Maintain the integrity of databases.

Report Preparation: 

• Prepare reports containing analytical, descriptive, and evaluative content that will be submitted for publication or for contribution to grant applications, progress reports, presentations at national and international meetings, etc.  Conduct research of literature and database analysis.

• Bachelor’s Degree with major courses in field of research AND 1 year of relevant experience, OR
• Associate’s Degree and 3 years of relevant work experience.

• Independent proficiency in pluripotent stem cell culture techniques

• Previous work with scientists in an academic environment.

• Appreciating and cultivating a diverse study population. Excellent eye to detail and organization skills.

• 3 years of relevant research experience, with demonstrated research or clinical experience in cell biology and genetics with laboratory experience with cell culture and molecular biology assays and animal handling experience

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.