SUMMARY

This Position broadly supports multiple ongoing basic research projects under the direction of Dr. Khanh Nguyen. The Nguyen laboratory uses biotechnologies to discover and design new approaches to venous and vascular diseases using a variety of techniques including molecular biology and novel magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The Nguyen laboratory uses surgical rodent models of venous disease and biotechnologies to discover and design new approaches to venous and vascular diseases using a variety of techniques including molecular biology and novel imaging.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES other duties as assigned...

• Carry out rodent animal husbandry (breeding, genotyping, metabolic and protein assays).
• Transport rodents to/from the animal facility.
• Assist with rodent microsurgery, prepare and clean up microsurgery area.
• Perform daily post-operative checks on operated subjects and administer medications as needed, availability weekend days or outside of standard business hours at times.
• Conduct flow cytometry experiments and perform analysis.
• Prepare tissue and/or perform tissue histology and immunohistochemistry techniques according to established protocols. Use of light, fluorescent, and other microscopy including imaging analysis.
• Perform molecular biology techniques including RT-PCR and western blotting.
• Perform data analysis and maintain accurate records of results and methodologies.
• Analyze data and document experimental results.
• Maintain equipment, make stock solutions used in methods above, and contribute to general lab organization.
• Monitor laboratory supplies and ordering.
• Transport specimens to/from core facilities for processing.

QUALIFICATIONS

Ability to perform essential job duties with or without reasonable accommodation and without posing a direct threat to safety or health of employee or others. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• College background in biological or related science
• Willingness to work with and handle rodents
• Prior basic laboratory work
• Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite
• Self-directed and able to work without supervision
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to multitask, prioritize, and manage time efficiently

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• College background in biological or related science
• At least 1-year experience as a research assistant doing basic science research and molecular biology

LANGUAGE SKILLS

• Ability to communicate in English
• Effective communication

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS

• Basic statistical analysis methods

COMPUTER SKILLS

• Ability to use Microsoft applications: word, excel, etc.
• Ability to use or learn statistical programs such as SPSS

REASONING ABILITY

• Attention to detail
• Critical thinking
• Technical skills
• Statistical and Graphical Analysis of Data
• Ability to maintain quality, safety, and/or infection control standards
• Planning and scheduling
• Interviewing
• Data Collection

The physical demands and working conditions described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee must frequently lift and carry up to 10 pounds and occasionally up to 50 pounds. The employee is frequently required to stand, walk and sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms, and talk or hear.
• The employee is occasionally exposed to toxic or caustic chemicals, fumes, or airborne particles and risk of radiation. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

LOCATION and ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The primary job location is located on the VA Portland Health Care System campus.

New employees must submit COVID-19 vaccination documentation or seek an exemption within 8 weeks of beginning employment.

The Portland VA Research Foundation is an equal opportunity, affirmative action organization. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to status as a protected veteran or a qualified individual with a disability, or other protected status such as race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, or age. We celebrate diversity and are committed to cultural inclusion, respect for differences, acceptance, and respect for all employees.

Please apply online at http://www.pvarf.org and include a CV/Resume, cover letter, and list of 3 references.