Weekend Research Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Department Overview

This position contributes to ongoing basic and translational research programs within the Center for Embryonic Cell and Gene Therapy (CECGT).  http://www.ohsu.edu/xd/research/centers-institutes/embryonic-cell-gene-therapy-center/

The successful candidate will perform a broad range of scientific and operational duties under minimal supervision, requiring a high degree of independence, flexibility, sound judgment, and specialized expertise in cell and gene therapy.

The role involves regular interaction with internal and external collaborators and requires a high level of accuracy, efficiency, and professionalism.

Function/Duties of Position

Research - Cell Culture and Animal Studies

• Prepare culture media, buffers, and reagents in accordance with established protocols and quality standards.
• Establish and maintain primary cell cultures.
• Derive, culture, and maintain embryonic stem cell (ESC) and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines.
• Perform animal-based research procedures, including collection of gametes, embryos, and tissues.
• Support mouse colony management, including routine husbandry, genotyping, injections, and weekend coverage as needed.
• Coordinate animal experiments with project leaders; assist with preparation and review of IACUC protocols, ensure regulatory compliance, and maintain accurate records for animal tracking and breeding.

Research - Molecular Biology and Sequencing

• Perform and optimize a range of molecular biology techniques, including DNA/RNA extraction, library preparation, PCR and ARMS-qPCR, pyrosequencing, Sanger sequencing, and next-generation sequencing (e.g., MiSeq, AmpliSeq).
• Conduct downstream assays such as immunocytochemistry, karyotyping, and other relevant analytical techniques as required.
• Prepare, run, and analyze agarose and/or polyacrylamide gels, including sample loading, electrophoresis, and imaging.

Research - Data Collection/Data Analysis/Record Keeping   

• Collect, organize, and manage scientific data relevant to ongoing research projects, including database queries and literature searches as needed.
• Maintain the accuracy, integrity, and security of CECGT databases and research records.
• Contribute to the design, planning, and execution of experiments.

Report Preparation

• Prepare reports containing analytical, descriptive, and evaluative content that will be submitted for publication, grant applications, progress reports, presentations at national and international meetings, etc.
• Prepare abstracts for submission to conferences in national and international locations.
• Assist in the preparation of manuscripts, reports, and regulatory documents, including animal research protocols.

Administrative Laboratory Responsibilities

• Oversee and support day-to-day laboratory operations, including routine equipment maintenance and coordination of service/repairs.
• Procure laboratory reagents, consumables, and equipment; manage inventory and ensure timely restocking.
• Maintain organization and readiness of laboratory and cell culture facilities, including supply stocking and space management.
• Support laboratory cleaning schedules, including autoclaving, sterilization, and decontamination procedures in compliance with safety standards.
• Manage purchasing workflows, including P-card transactions, purchase orders, and billing documentation.
• Perform general laboratory upkeep to ensure a clean, safe, and well-functioning research environment.
• Assist with budget tracking, purchasing coordination, and obtaining equipment quotes.

Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Master's Degree in relevant field AND 3 years of relevant experience; OR
• Bachelor's Degree in relevant field AND 5 years of relevant experience.

• AALAS (American Association for Laboratory Animal Science) certification or willingness to obtain certification.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong knowledge of mammalian embryology,  stem cell biology and mitochondrial.
• Expertise in NGS workflows, including library preparation and sequencing analysis.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative academic research environment.
• Commitment to fostering and supporting diverse study populations.
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail. 
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities. 
• Demonstrates integrity, professionalism, and a willingness to learn.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in a related field.
• Experience working in academic or translational research environments.
• Hands-on laboratory experience with mouse and human gamete and embryo research, sequencing technologies and stem cell culture.

Additional Details

Standard schedule: Monday-Friday, typically 8:00am - 5:00pm or 7:00am - 4:00pm.

Participation in weekend, evening, and holiday on-call rotations for laboratory and animal-related duties as needed.

Primarily an on-site position with limited telework as approved by the supervisor.

Regular exposure to human, mouse, and non-human primate tissues and biological fluids.

Responsibilities include tissue and fluid collection in accordance with study protocols; training will be provided for proper handling and safety procedures.

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 askhr@ohsu.eduEmployment Type: OTHER