Department Overview

The mission of the department of Cell, Developmental and Cancer Biology at OHSU is to improve our basic understanding of biological mechanisms relevant to human health and disease. The department is composed of 25 faculty with research spanning mechanisms of cellular crosstalk, epigenetic regulation, cell signaling, and immune activation across cancer, infection, and other disease pathologies.

Function/Duties of Position

A Research Assistant 2 position is available in the lab of Dr. Megan Burger at the OHSU Knight Cancer Institute in the exciting field of cancer immunology. The Burger Lab focuses on uncovering factors regulating T cell responses against cancer to inform the design of next generation cancer immunotherapies. We use genetically engineered mouse models of lung cancer and cutting-edge single-cell analysis platforms to deeply investigate mechanisms of tumor-immune crosstalk and perform preclinical immunotherapy trials.

The Research Assistant 2 will work under the supervision of Dr. Burger and senior lab staff to provide technical support for ongoing research projects. Responsibilities will include:

* Animal husbandry and mouse colony maintenance.

* Animal dosing and monitoring (i.e., injections, blood collection) for preclinical immunotherapy trials.

* Processing of tissue samples from mice.

* Molecular and cell biology assays, such as PCR, molecular cloning, qRT-PCR, western blot, lentiviral transduction, immunohistochemistry and cyclic immunofluorescence staining.

* Immunological assays, such as primary lymphocyte isolation, multiparameter flow cytometry, T cell culture, and ELISA.

* Assistance with single-cell RNA-sequencing workflow.

* Data analysis and presentation at lab meetings.

* Procurement, preparation and organization of common lab reagents.

* Lab house-keeping tasks.

The successful candidate will be an enthusiastic, organized, self-starter that enjoys working as part of a team, but also excels at independent work. A scientific background and prior research experience in cell and molecular biology is desired. Prior coursework in immunology and exposure to immunological techniques is preferred.

Required Qualifications

* 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

* Experience with cell and molecular biology wetlab techniques.

* Strong organizational skills; independent problem-solving ability; excellent interpersonal communication and time management.

Preferred Qualifications

* Coursework in immunology and/or cancer biology.

* 1 year prior research experience.

* Experience with animal handling and immunological techniques.

Additional Details

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Work is generally 40 hours per week during normal working hours, however, some evening and weekend work may be necessary. Additional safety training will be required to work with cell lines/ infectious bacteria or viruses/ working with in a BSL-2 environment. Working with laboratory animals is required, as well as with human blood samples.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & EQUIPMENT USAGE:

Personnel will need to work at lab benches or desks for up to 8 hours at a time. Ability to perform repetitive lab manipulations (gripping, grasping, reaching, twisting), move lab equipment under 25 lbs with accommodation. Personal protective equipment must be worn as required. (Gloves, eyewear, lab coat, etc).

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 503-494-5148 or aaeo@ohsu.edu.