Research Assistant

Department Overview

The Vollum Institute is a privately endowed research institute at Oregon Health & Science University dedicated to basic research that will lead to new treatments for neurological and psychiatric diseases. Vollum scientists have broad-ranging interests that coalesce around molecular neurobiology and cellular physiology. Their work has transformed the field of neuroscience and, in particular, have provided important advances in the study of synaptic transmission, neuronal development, neurotransmitter transporters, ion channels and the neurobiology of disease.

Function/Duties of Position

The purpose of the position is to perform independent research projects, assist with mouse colony maintenance for the Monk lab including health checks and breeding; provide mouse and zebrafish husbandry and assistance with experiments in the Monk Laboratory in the Vollum Institute. 

 

• Colony Maintenance includes performing tasks necessary to ensure appropriate genetic strains for research experiments.  This includes ear biopsies, tagging, weaning, crosses SOP’s and database management to create, maintain and document strains.
• Mouse husbandry includes check for pups 3 times a week (M-F) provide soft food 3 times a week (M-F) health check 2 times a week (M-F), general mouse room management and humane euthanasia as required.
• Zebrafish husbandry includes maintenance of fish lines and performing zebrafish husbandry techniques.
• Perform techniques such as molecular biology, DNA/RNA extraction, genotyping PCR, and qPCR, data analyses, and preparing lab reagents and solutions for scientific experiments.
• Perform zebrafish embryo injections, sorting and screening; perform microscopic imaging of zebrafish, analyze data.
• Contribute to the planning, design, manuscript writing, grant or regulatory documentations, modification of studies and experiments.
• Attends lab meetings, and contributes to the planning of experiments.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelors 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.

• Basic laboratory skills.

• Must possess energy and drive to coordinate multiple projects simultaneously.

• Ability to use tact and diplomacy to maintain effective working relationships.

• Highly motivated and comfortable handling mice and zebrafish and must be comfortable in performing humane euthanasia.

• Must be proficient with computers running Apple and Windows/PC applications (e.g. MS Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with mouse models desired, as well as knowledge of genetics, basic developmental biology, molecular pharmacology and/or neurobiology also desired.
• Meticulously organized, detail oriented, independent, and possess strong problem-solving abilities.

Additional Details

The ideal candidate will be able to commit to 2 years in the role after hire.

 

Monday - Friday, days with occasional evening or weekend work.

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.edu