Lab Assistant

Department Overview

The Knight Cardiovascular Institute Research Assistant II (Lab Technician) is responsible for various duties related to sample processing and laboratory maintenance for both investigator initiated and sponsored clinical trials. They will maintain inventory, cleanliness, equipment ordering, sample processing, and participating in ongoing benchtop research and data collection. The RA2 assists with purchasing of equipment and supplies and communicating with scientific and clinical staff.

This position also contributes to written reports, abstracts, project proposals and grants, and presentations. This position will primarily support our Cardiomyopathy research team within the division of Cardiology, however the lab they will maintain serves the entire clinical trials unit and they will have overlap with all sections within the Cardiovascular Medicine Clinical Trials Unit and Knight Cardiovascular Institute. This is an onsite role.

Function/Duties of Position

1. Always promotes the mission of the Knight Cardiovascular Institute through our Professional Standards of timely Customer Service, Reliability, Productivity, Professionalism, Accuracy, Timeliness, Integrity, and Problem-Solving.

2. Responsible for the lifecycle of bio samples while in the CTU from collection to shipping.This includes but is not limited to:

• Works in collaboration with study coordinator to maintain and file regulatory and study documents of all samples collected for various studies.
• Keeps detailed accounting records of all samples processed, shipped, and stored.
• Creates and maintains a database of all bio samples in cryostorage.
• Processes samples after collection and prepares for shipping.
• Prepare, finalize, and deliver all packages for shipment at days end.
• Maintaining laboratory reporting and signature requests from the PI .

3. Benchtop research for investigator initiated clinical trials, including but not limited to: 

• Perform various molecular techniques such as DNA/RNA/library preparation, PCR, Sanger sequencing, and other assays as deemed necessary.
• Gel preparation, loading, and imaging.
• Preparation of reagent solutions needed for molecular research.
• sample processing including DNA, RNA and protein.
• Monitor and maintain consistent laboratory day-to-day operations, assist with purchases of equipment and supplies, and oversee maintenance of equipment.

4. General Laboratory: 

• Perform general lab upkeep and record keeping as necessary.
• Provide support to stocking laboratory.
• Provide support in laboratory cleaning and decontamination.
• Provide support and training to new clinical trials staff who are familiarizing themselves with sample processing.

5. Data Collection/Data Analysis/Record Keeping: 

• Collect scientific data pertinent to research projects, keep records of information (which may include database searches).
• Maintain integrity of all databases, including sponsor EDC as required.

6. Report Preparation and Literature Research: 

• 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. 
• Assist the Clinical Trial Managers, coordinators, or Principle Investigator with other research related projects and administrative/office related duties as needed.
• Assist manager and coordinator as needed in supporting sponsor visits (i.e. proctoring visits, monitoring, site initiation, etc.)

Required Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's in relevant field OR

• Associate's AND 3 years of relevant experience OR

• 4 years of relevant experience

• Previous work with scientists in an academic environment
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks at one time
• Must have working knowledge of basic lab functions and general benchtop skills.
• Must have excellent communication, analytical and organizational skills: both written and verbal.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team while being collaborative in resolving problems.
• Must be proficient with computers running Windows and PC applications e.g. MS Excel, Oracle, Access, Word and PowerPoint).
• Must have demonstrated excellent customer service skills both on the phone and in person.
• Demonstrated ability to work with a variety of diverse individuals and personalities.
• Must possess energy and drive to coordinate multiple projects simultaneously.
• Ability to use tact and diplomacy to maintain effective working relationships.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with coursework in Science

• 3 years of relevant research experience, with demonstrated research or clinical experience in molecular biology and knowledge of cardiology.

• Managing Access database or similar database.

• Microsoft office, medical terminology, analytical skills, trouble shooting skills, and independent laboratory skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as within a team environment.
• BLS

Additional Details

Location: Marquam Hill & South Waterfront CampusSchedule: Monday – Friday, 6am – 6pm primary business hours with variability depending on clinical schedules with occasional evenings & weekend work to meet project deadlines/goals. As a salaried employee research assistant is expected to flex their time in conjunction with OHSU policy; this may mean working more than 40 hours in a week and then less another.

Must be able to travel to all KCVI worksite locations, including potentially using the tram numerous times each day. Will work with human biological samples, including samples which may contain infectious disease. Research assistant Coordinator may be expected to travel to conferences, new study meetings. Research Assistant is required to use Personal Protective Equipment (gloves, masks, etc.) as required to maintain a safe and healthy clinical and laboratory research environment. Additional safety training may be required to work in clinical research. Position requires ability to focus in a busy cubicle environment with multiple distractions. Position requires succesful completion of BLS certification.

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