Research Assistant

Oregon Health & Science University • Portland, OR

6d • Onsite

About The Position

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. 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.

Requirements

• 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).

Nice To Haves

• Experience with mouse models desired.
• Knowledge of genetics desired.
• Knowledge of basic developmental biology desired.
• Knowledge of molecular pharmacology desired.
• Knowledge of neurobiology desired.
• Meticulously organized.
• Detail oriented.
• Independent.
• Possess strong problem-solving abilities.

Responsibilities

• 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.
• Perform tasks necessary to ensure appropriate genetic strains for research experiments, including ear biopsies, tagging, weaning, crosses SOP’s and database management to create, maintain and document strains.
• Perform mouse husbandry: 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.
• Perform zebrafish husbandry: maintenance of fish lines and performing zebrafish husbandry techniques.
• Perform techniques such as molecular biology, DNA/RNA extraction, genotyping PCR, and qPCR.
• Perform data analyses.
• Prepare 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.
• Attend lab meetings, and contribute to the planning of experiments.
• Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington.

What This Job Offers

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