Research Assistant II

Oregon Health & Science University • Portland, OR

3h • Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine is integral to the healthcare, education and research missions at OHSU. We provide clinical services at OHSU hospitals and collaborate with the Veterans Affairs Portland Health Care System (VA), Hillsboro Medical Center and Adventist Health. We specialize in providing excellent perioperative care and anesthesia services to our patients using state-of-the-art technology and pharmacologic tools with an emphasis on patient safety. Our department's research program is robust. We have an active clinical research division. It covers a wide range of areas with a special focus on patient safety and pain management. Our basic science division has labs at both OHSU and the VA. Attending physicians, fellows, residents, and medical students work collaboratively with Ph.D. scientists in our labs to advance human health. This division is focused on neuroscience and renal physiology. A full-time Research Assistant II position is currently open in the OHSU Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine within the Moss Lab. This role provides a unique opportunity for hands-on training and mentorship in the exciting field of systems neuroscience, laying the foundation for a career in STEM academics or medicine. The Moss Lab is dedicated to unraveling the processes through which the nervous system transforms sensory information into perceptual experiences that influence behavior. In pursuit of this mission, we employ an advanced array of systems neuroscience methods in mouse models. These methodologies include viral and genetic manipulations, in vivo imaging, electrophysiology, and behavioral assays. Our objective is to delineate the functioning of specific neural circuits from sensory input to behavioral output. This full-time, in-person position involves a variable mix of hands-on experimentation, data management, and general lab support. Approximately 10-20 hours per week will be dedicated to behavioral training and testing on mice. An additional 10-20 hours may be spent supporting in vivo imaging experiments, depending on the individual's interest and ability. The remaining time will be devoted to tasks such as mouse care, immunohistochemical sample preparation, microscopy, data management, record-keeping, and regular meetings with Dr. Moss. Qualifications: Strong problem-solving skills and a willingness to contribute to collaborative projects. Substantial biology exposure as an undergraduate. Genuine curiosity about neurobiological research. Comfort and willingness to work with live mice. Undergraduate laboratory experience preferred. High engagement, strong organizational skills, and attention to detail. Candidates do not need specific knowledge of individual techniques, as training will be provided by Dr. Moss and lab members. The optimal candidate will have the opportunity to contribute to ongoing projects and develop and sustain an independent project. A two-year commitment is preferred, but single-year commitments will be considered.

Requirements

• 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
• Ability to perform the job duties with or without accommodation.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a willingness to contribute to collaborative projects.
• Substantial biology exposure as an undergraduate.
• Genuine curiosity about neurobiological research.
• Comfort and willingness to work with live mice.
• High engagement, strong organizational skills, and attention to detail.
• Willingness to work with mice in a laboratory setting.

Nice To Haves

• Biology, Neuroscience, or related degree
• Involvement with primary/original research projects at the undergraduate level, with letter(s) of recommendation
• Familiarity with neuroscience, cell biology, and molecular biology
• Undergraduate laboratory experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Hands-on technical work, including mouse handling, immunohistochemistry, and imaging
• Data acquisition, preparation and presentation
• Record keeping, lab supply ordering, lab management
• Participate in academic development, one on one meetings, lab meetings
• Other laboratory and administrative duties as requested

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level