Oregon Health & Science University logo

Oregon Health & Science University

Research Assistant 2

🇺🇸 Hybrid - Portland, OR

🕑 Full-Time

💰 TBD

💻 Research

🗓️ May 22nd, 2025

Edtech.com's Summary

Oregon Health & Science University is hiring a Research Assistant 2. This position involves conducting molecular biology, proteomics, and epigenetics experiments across two labs at the Knight Cardiovascular Institute. The role requires generating high-quality experimental data, participating in lab maintenance, compliance, and collaborative meetings, and supporting various research projects within the team.

 Highlights
  • Perform molecular biology protocols including nucleic acid extraction, PCR, and next-generation sequencing.
  • Handle proteomics data and conduct Western blots, ELISA, and gel electrophoresis.
  • Maintain lab equipment, manage supplies, and keep records.
  • Bachelor's Degree in related field or Associate's with 3 years of experience required.
  • Experience with PCR and nucleic acid extractions is essential.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and project tracking software needed.
  • Work schedule from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.

Research Assistant 2 Full Description

Department Overview: 
The Knight Cardiovascular Institute (KCVI) is recognized as a top integrated center for cardiovascular clinical care, translational research and professional training in all aspects of heart and vascular disease. Guided by a multi-disciplinary approach, researchers and clinicians drive a vibrant translational research program, which focuses on delivering the latest knowledge and cutting edge care to patients. Specifically, research at KCVI seeks to improve patient outcomes by achieving earlier diagnosis of disease, more accurate monitoring of its progression, and tailoring therapy to the molecular basis of disease.
 
This position is for a Research Assistant II that will be shared between the KCVI Epigenetics Core/Carbone Lab and the Masri Cardiomyopathy Lab at KCVI.

Function/Duties of Position: 
The Research Assistant II joining our teams will perform molecular biology, proteomics, and epigenetic experiments. They will work closely with other members of both labs to generate high-quality data for internal or collaborative projects. The candidate for this position will have the unique opportunity of gaining experience in multiple molecular biology techniques, mainly geared towards next-generation sequencing and proteomics and engage with researchers from diverse disciplines. This is an ideal position for someone who enjoys teamwork, is organized, meticulous, and can manage multiple projects and tasks simultaneously.
  • Planning, conducting and troubleshooting molecular biology protocols, including nucleic acid (DNA and RNA) extraction/quality assessment, PCR, qPCR, Next-generation sequencing library generation for Whole Genome Bisulfite Conversion (WGB), RNA-seq, CUT&Run, Reduced Representation Bisulfite sequencing (RRBS) and generation of DNA and RNA sequencing libraries
  • Handling proteomics data and performing Western blots, ELISA, and gels
  • Lab maintenance responsibilities: cleaning and maintenance of space and equipment, restocking lab items and reagents, organizing and cleaning freezers, updating items to be ordered, etc.
  • Compliance & documentation: Record keeping, documentation; protocol adherence, maintaining lab database
  • Participation in lab meetings, collaborator meetings, communication with team members and collaborators
 
Required Qualifications: 
  • Bachelor's Degree (4 yr) with major courses in field of research OR Associate's Degree (2 yr) and 3 years of relevant experience
  • General laboratory skills and knowledge of lab safety
  • Familiarity with basic molecular biology techniques such as PCR, nucleic acid extractions, cloning, and gel electrophoresis
  • Knowledge of sterile tissue culture technique
  • Excellent communication, analytical and organizational skills in both written and verbal formats
  • Ability to use tact and diplomacy to maintain effective working relationships
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team 
  • Ability to balance multiple ongoing projects with fluctuating priorities
  • General computer skills, including use of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and project tracking software
 
Preferred Qualifications: 
  • Bachelor's Degree (4 yr) with major courses in genetics, epigenetics, molecular biology or bioscience
  • 1 -2 years relevant experience
  • Proficiency with molecular and epigenetic techniques such as bisulfite conversion, chromatin immunoprecipitation and sequencing library preparation
  • Experience with mammalian cell culture
 
Additional Details:
Work Schedule: 8:30 – 5:30
Work Location: South Waterfront, CHH1
 
Additional safety training will be required to work in lab environment and with biological samples. Vaccination and/or immunization may be required. Personal protective equipment must be worn as required. (Gloves, eyewear, lab coat, etc). Potential work exposures include temperature (cold room), biological samples (mammalian tissues and cell culture), chemical (such as phenol/chloroform), and noise (sonicator).

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.