Research Associate

The Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute (VGTI) at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) has assembled a multidisciplinary team of scientists to respond to serious viral disease threats, including AIDS, chronic viral infection-associated diseases, newly emerging viral diseases and infectious diseases of the elderly. Our programs are intended to span the continuum between basic and clinical science, in which discoveries are rapidly advanced from the level of molecular and cellular biology through animal models and ultimately into clinical testing. The development of this unique program in immunology and virology provides an important training opportunity for graduate students and postdoctoral fellows at OHSU. This is why an important part of our mission is the training of young scientists in newer academic disciplines emerging at the Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute.

The Estes Laboratory combines cutting-edge multi-omics platforms with traditional immunohistochemistry techniques to understand how local and systemic inflammation promote tissue pathology as well as disease progression. We utilize several non-human primate models of highly relevant human diseases, including HIV and inflammatory bowel disease, to additionally test therapeutics designed to modulate the inflammatory landscape, restore immune homeostasis, and reduce viral reservoirs.  

 

This position includes supervised design of experiments and/or research procedures, with increasing independence over time, as well as the direct training and supervision of junior researchers. Successful individuals will be/become proficient in basic histology research techniques such as microtomy and both manual and automated staining platforms (e.g. intelliPATH and Bond RX), in addition to advanced approaches such as multiplexed in situ hybridization (ISH) and protein immunofluorescence, spatial transcriptomics, fluorescent imaging, and image analysis. Additionally, this individual will support in vivo non-human primate studies, which may include coordinating with collaborators, scheduling procedures, collecting specimens, and processing tissue samples.

 

Expectations include: 1. performance of routine procedures as well as development of novel techniques in which innovation and problem solving are required, 2. collection, analysis, and abstraction of data, 3. establishing SOPs, and 4. reporting of work performed and presentation in both small-group and large-group settings.

 

Candidates should have direct experience in multiplexed immunofluorescence microscopy, immunohistochemistry, bright-field microscopy and image analysis.  Experience with in situ hybridization protocols and principles and other imaging-based immunology lab experience highly desired.Prior experience with aspects of standard histological techniques (e.g. microtomy and IHC) is preferred; experience with RNAscope ISH technology is desired. A background in immunology, ideally in HIV/SIV, is strongly preferred. Additionally helpful would be knowledge of R script or other coding platforms.

 

A successful candidate must have the ability to grasp complex topics and tasks, work independently after training when directed, be inquisitive; able to work independently after training with little supervision; good at organizing, planning, and implementing experiments with solid data interpretation; Organizational and time management skills that maintain timeliness of work and accurate prioritization; Excellent oral and written communication skills; ability to engage with co-workers and team members within the lab, and across laboratories; and, Ability to conduct research in a multidisciplinary, fast-paced research environment, often with tight deadlines.

 

Opportunities for promotions and publication in top academic journals are routine.  This is a wonderful opportunity for those interested in a laboratory career in the biological sciences or desiring experience in preparation for graduate school. Please note that this position is at OHSU's West Campus (Beaverton).

 

Submit a resume and cover letter to be considered for this position.

• Bachelor’s Degree (4 yr.) with major courses in field of research + 5 years experience OR
• Associate's degree (2 yr.) and 5 years of relevant experience
• Must have basic laboratory skills- pipetting, ability to make calculations.
• Comfortable with tissue processing and handling.
• Ability to prioritize and execute multiple tasks in a work day.
• Must have excellent communication, analytical and organizational skills: both written and verbal.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Must possess energy and drive to coordinate multiple projects simultaneously.
• Being collaborative in completing projects and resolving problems.
• Ability to be a team player. Support and assist team members. Be available to help, and learn from the team. Keep an open mind to feedback, and earn trust of staff and providers.

• Must be proficient with computers running Apple and Windows/PC applications (e.g. MS Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint).

• Experience in microtomy
• Knowledge of multiplexed immunofluorescence and in situ hybridization based methods.
• Previous experience or education in HIV/SIV disease and research.
• Familiarity with whole slide digital imaging.
• Prior experience working with non-human primates and/or non-human primate derived specimens.
• R script or coding experience.
• Experience/Knowledge of preparing cryostat sections, immunohistochemistry, imaging using an array of platforms; serum, plasma, and mononuclear cell isolation.

• Histotechnician, HT (ASCP), Histotechnologist, HTL (ASCP) certified and/or Medical Technologist, MT (ASCP).

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.