Senior Research Assistant
Department Overview
A Senior Research Assistant position is available immediately in the lab of Don Conrad at Oregon Health & Science University. We are seeking a talented, motivated individual interested in furthering our understanding of how homologous chromosomes (inherited from mom and dad) segregate during spermatogenesis to generate a haploid sperm. The applicant will have the opportunity to learn cutting-edge molecular, cell biology and bioinformatics techniques to investigate the mechanisms underlying repair of self-inflicted DSBs into crossovers during spermatogenesis. This research is important as defects in crossover formation are a major cause of non-obstructive azoospermia and cannot be helped by advances in in vitro fertilization (IVF) techniques. The position requires the ability to design and execute small animal experiments; to design and run computational analysis pipelines for sequencing analysis; to perform follow-up validation experiments; and to travel and write papers to communicate analysis results. Appropriate training will be provided to help develop the required skills. Candidates with experience in mouse handling are especially encouraged to apply.
Function/Duties of Position
Investigate meiotic recombination during spermatogenesis
- Characterize the transcriptional context of meiotic recombination during spermatogenesis.
- Determine marker contributions (from hybrid strains) to products of meiotic recombination.
- Make spermatocyte spreads to identify cell stage via immunofluorescence staining.
- Perform FACS to separate cell populations based on DNA content and/or intracellular markers.
- Communicate major research findings through teleconferences, conference presentations, and written reports and peer-reviewed papers.
Training and community-building
- Participate in the intellectual life of the lab and greater lab environment by attending seminars, lab meetings, and providing advice and training to others on an as-needed basis.
Leadership in scientific lab strategy
- Participation in planning, discussion of scientific strategy of the lab
Required Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's in relevant field AND 1 years of relevant experience OR Equivalent combination of training and experience
Experience: Previous success as a research scientist demonstrated by publications
Job Related Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (Competencies): Experience in mouse handling. Background in molecular and cell biology. Effective written and oral communication and ability to work in a collaborative environment.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience: Experience in testis biology or related field. Previous success as a research scientist demonstrated by first-author publications.
Job Related Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (Competencies): Experience in developing mouse protocols, housing and handling. Knowledge of mammalian testis anatomy and cell biology. Familiarity in using Linux/UNIX computing environment and scripting in R or Python.
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.
As an organization devoted to the health and well-being of people in Oregon and beyond, OHSU requires its employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.