Details

Posted: 15-Jul-23

Location: Portland, Oregon

Type: Full-time

Salary: Open

Categories:

Staff/Administrative

Internal Number: 24735

Function/Duties of Position

A laboratory within the Department of Pediatrics is looking for a Research Assistant 2 to join the lab that is studying cellular and molecular mechanisms of human white matter injury related to aging and cognitive decline.

The project utilizes a unique collection of human autopsy brains from subjects identified with vascular brain injury, Alzheimers Disease and MRI-defined white matter hyperintensity signal abnormalities (see: Annals of Neurology 70:465-476, 2011; Journal of Neuropathology and Experimental Neurology, 75(6):539-554, 2016; Annals of Neurology 83:142-152, 2018). This NIH-funded study will define mechanisms of white matter inflammation and myelination failure.

The project focuses on cellular targets of injury in MRI-defined white matter lesions including oligodendrocyte progenitors, astrocytes and microglia within the context of the extracellular matrix molecule hyaluronic acid, which we have shown to play a role in myelination failure (see: Nature Med. 11:966-972, 2005; Preston et al., Ann Neurol.73:266-280, 2013; Journal of Clinical Investigation, 128: 2025-2041, 2018).

The ideal candidate will have an understanding of fundamental neuroscience concepts relevant to the neurobiology of aging and be familiar with fundamentals of microscopy, immunohistochemistry, quantitative image analysis approaches or basic biostatistics. The project has the potential to involve tissue culture or animal model development for candidates who also have skills in cellular or molecular neurobiology.

The candidate will interface with an established team (senior research associate and post-doctoral fellow) who routinely handle human autopsy tissues and analyze complex human data sets.

The project involves integration with other sites in this multi-collaborator project that involves three teams of investigators across the U.S: (1) autopsy brain acquisition and neuropathology evaluation (Seattle, WA)); (2) studies related to the role of hyaluronic acid in myelination failure and inflammation using in vitro approaches (Hillsboro. OR); (3) human vascular biology studies (Augusta, GA).

Daily responsibilities include designing and conducting experiments, data acquisition and analysis, record-keeping and attending weekly lab meetings to present research findings.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's in Life Sciences or relevant field OR Associate's AND 3 years of relevant experience OR 4 years of relevant experience OR Equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Standard techniques in microscopy immunohistochemistry, molecular and cellular neurobiology.

Preferred Qualifications

• Coursework taken pertaining to Neurobiology/Neuroscience or Physiology.
• The applicant could also have familiarity with basic molecular biology techniques (PCR, RT-PCR) and/or be comfortable handling rodents (neonatal and adult).
• Some experience with advanced neuroanatomical approaches (histopathology, stereology, computer-assisted image analysis using programs such as Image J or Stereoinvestigator).
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Be enthusiastic about their work, and be highly motivated to succeed in a multi-disciplinary/multi-collaborator setting that provides a wealth of opportunities in one of the major universities for neuroscience research in the U.S.

Additional Details

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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.