Research Associate

This position contributes to ongoing basic and translational research programs within the Center for Embryonic Cell and Gene Therapy (CECGT).  http://www.ohsu.edu/xd/research/centers-institutes/embryonic-cell-gene-therapy-center/

The successful candidate will perform a broad range of scientific and operational duties under minimal supervision, requiring a high degree of independence, flexibility, sound judgment, and specialized expertise in cell and gene therapy.

The role involves regular interaction with internal and external collaborators and requires a high level of accuracy, efficiency, and professionalism.

Research – Cell Culture and Animal Studies

• Prepare culture media, buffers, and reagents in accordance with established protocols and quality standards.
• Establish and maintain primary cell cultures.
• Derive, culture, and maintain embryonic stem cell (ESC) and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines.
• Perform animal-based research procedures, including collection of gametes, embryos, and tissues.
• Support mouse colony management, including routine husbandry, genotyping, injections, and weekend coverage as needed.
• Coordinate animal experiments with project leaders; assist with preparation and review of IACUC protocols, ensure regulatory compliance, and maintain accurate records for animal tracking and breeding.

Research – Molecular Biology and Sequencing

• Perform and optimize a range of molecular biology techniques, including DNA/RNA extraction, library preparation, PCR and ARMS-qPCR, pyrosequencing, Sanger sequencing, and next-generation sequencing (e.g., MiSeq, AmpliSeq).
• Conduct downstream assays such as immunocytochemistry, karyotyping, and other relevant analytical techniques as required.
• Prepare, run, and analyze agarose and/or polyacrylamide gels, including sample loading, electrophoresis, and imaging.

Research – Data Collection/Data Analysis/Record Keeping   

• Collect, organize, and manage scientific data relevant to ongoing research projects, including database queries and literature searches as needed.
• Maintain the accuracy, integrity, and security of CECGT databases and research records.
• Contribute to the design, planning, and execution of experiments.

Report Preparation

• Prepare reports containing analytical, descriptive, and evaluative content that will be submitted for publication, grant applications, progress reports, presentations at national and international meetings, etc.
• Prepare abstracts for submission to conferences in national and international locations.
• Assist in the preparation of manuscripts, reports, and regulatory documents, including animal research protocols.

Administrative Laboratory Responsibilities

• Oversee and support day-to-day laboratory operations, including routine equipment maintenance and coordination of service/repairs.
• Procure laboratory reagents, consumables, and equipment; manage inventory and ensure timely restocking.
• Maintain organization and readiness of laboratory and cell culture facilities, including supply stocking and space management.
• Support laboratory cleaning schedules, including autoclaving, sterilization, and decontamination procedures in compliance with safety standards.
• Manage purchasing workflows, including P-card transactions, purchase orders, and billing documentation.
• Perform general laboratory upkeep to ensure a clean, safe, and well-functioning research environment.
• Assist with budget tracking, purchasing coordination, and obtaining equipment quotes.

Other duties as assigned.

• Master's Degree in relevant field AND 3 years of relevant experience; OR
• Bachelor's Degree in relevant field AND 5 years of relevant experience.

• AALAS (American Association for Laboratory Animal Science) certification or willingness to obtain certification.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong knowledge of mammalian embryology,  stem cell biology and mitochondrial.
• Expertise in NGS workflows, including library preparation and sequencing analysis.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative academic research environment.
• Commitment to fostering and supporting diverse study populations.
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail. 
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities. 
• Demonstrates integrity, professionalism, and a willingness to learn.

• Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in a related field.
• Experience working in academic or translational research environments.
• Hands-on laboratory experience with mouse and human gamete and embryo research, sequencing technologies and stem cell culture.

Standard schedule: Monday–Friday, typically 8:00am - 5:00pm or 7:00am - 4:00pm.

Participation in weekend, evening, and holiday on-call rotations for laboratory and animal-related duties as needed.

Primarily an on-site position with limited telework as approved by the supervisor.

Regular exposure to human, mouse, and non-human primate tissues and biological fluids.

Responsibilities include tissue and fluid collection in accordance with study protocols; training will be provided for proper handling and safety procedures.