Research Assistant

Oregon Health & Science University • Beaverton, OR

21d • Onsite

About The Position

The Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute (VGTI) at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is seeking a Research Assistant to join a multidisciplinary team focused on responding to serious viral disease threats. This role will support a large nonhuman primate (NHP) research program focused on the immunopathobiology of infectious diseases and the development of vaccines and therapies. The primary technology employed by the lab is flow cytometry, and the laboratory group has access to multiple flow cytometric analyzers and cell sorters. This position is half-time (0.5 FTE) and involves in-person work at the VGTI during regular business hours.

Requirements

• Bachelor's in a relevant field; OR Associate's AND 3 years of relevant experience; OR 4 years of relevant experience; OR Equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Must be comfortable using computers (Mac, PC).
• Willingness to work with pathogens potentially dangerous to humans.
• Willingness to work in Biosafety Level 2 and 3 facilities.
• Willingness and ability to work flexible hours.
• Ability and willingness to work independently.
• Ability to carry and lift 35 lbs.
• Ability to stand for three continuous hours a day.
• Ability to work on computer for five continuous hours a day.
• Able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without accommodation.

Nice To Haves

• Major college courses in biological sciences.
• Some knowledge of flow cytometry.
• Experience in a biohazard laboratory.
• Laboratory experience, especially in sample processing.

Responsibilities

• Participate in a small team that operates the lab and institute’s flow cytometers to acquire data from samples.
• Perform general maintenance, calibration, trouble-shooting, and simple repair of cytometers (QA).
• Conduct quality control (QC) of the data before and during data acquisition.
• Coordinate with a data acquisition team, dynamically prioritizing tasks based on data stability.
• Perform routine maintenance of cytometers and calibration (compensation matrix, CS&T).
• Assess data quality before and during data acquisition.
• Interface with sample owners to resolve issues.
• Operate any of the available flow cytometric analyzers or cell sorters.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree