Research Assistant 2

Department Overview

Become a member of a vibrant research team under the direct supervision of Principal Investigator Dr. Melissa Wong, a stem cell biologist and cancer researcher in the OHSU Department of Cell, Developmental and Cancer Biology. Participate in ongoing efforts to understand tumor behavior at the molecular and cellular level. Participate in a collaborative research project between the two investigators that span a number of organ sites but focuses on a novel population of circulating cells. We will work with murine cancer models, human clinical samples and collaborate with a host of specialized laboratories within the auspices of the Knight Cancer Institute and OHSU Basic Sciences.

Performance Results

• Is action-oriented, makes sound decisions, and is accountable for results
• Has functional and technical knowledge and skills to do the job at a high level of accomplishment
• Seeks feedback from others and is receptive to talking about shortcomings

Personal Effectiveness

• Is direct and truthful
• Accepts constructive direction and acts to implement requests
• Adapts quickly to changes in work assignments and workflow
• Seeks new information and adapts behavior and work methods in response to changing conditions

Inclusion, Collaboration and Teamwork

• Acts as a team player and is cooperative
• Gains trust and support of peers
• Fosters open dialogue

Function/Duties of Position

• Work on research experiments relating to the Cell Fusion project or Stem Cell investigations as assigned by Dr. Melissa Wong. These studies will include a variety of technical approaches including: cell culture, live-cell imaging, FACS and characterization of cell phenotypes, as well as murine intestinal stem cell analyses in tissue or cell culture.
• Sample collection and processing. Interaction with clinical staff to facilitate identification and collection of samples. Possible consenting of patients onto IRB approved protocol.
• Perform data analyses and entry and maintain data files on research projects utilizing various platforms (Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Access, RedCap, caTissue, ClinPortal, and others).
• Mouse husbandry and experimentation.
• Immunohistochemical analyses, cell culture.
• General Lab maintenance, including preparation of buffers and stocks, cleaning and organizing dishware, and racking and autoclaving tips/tubes.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelors Degree (4 yr)  with major courses in field of research/No Experience. OR
• AA (2 yr)  and 3 years of relevant experience.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks at one time
• Must have excellent communication, analytical and organizational skills: both written and verbal.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team while being collaborative in resolving problems.
• Must be proficient with computers running Windows and PC applications e.g. MS Excel, Oracle, Access, Word and PowerPoint).
• Must possess energy and drive to coordinate multiple projects simultaneously.
• Ability to use tact and diplomacy to maintain effective working relationships
• Animal experience a plus

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Biology
• A minimum of 2 years of basic science research experience

Additional Details

WORKING CONDITIONS: 

Must be able to travel to all OHSU Laboratory Locations. The schedule will be full time, including evenings and weekends as needed for experiments.  The location will be primarily in the Wong laboratory and associated equipment rooms. Cell sorting and imaging will be conducted in core facilities. Exposure as part of this position may include toxic chemicals and drugs, human tissues and fluids, small animal work (mice) including tissue preparation, depending on the experiments performed.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & EQUIPMENT USAGE:

Must be able to work in an environment with constant interruptions, work on a computer for 3-4 hours at a time and lift 20 lbs. Ability to stand or to work at laboratory bench and sit for hours when needed for tissue culture or microscopy.

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All are welcome

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 or

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