Research Project Coordinator / Lab Manager

$61,318 - $97,968/Yr

Oregon Health & Science University - Portland, OR

Full-time - Mid Level

Portland, OR

Educational Services

About the position

The Research Project Coordinator / Lab Manager position at the Andres Lab within the Department of Pediatrics at Oregon Health & Science University is a multifaceted role that combines responsibilities of both a Lab Manager and a Research Associate. The primary focus of the Andres Lab is to investigate intestinal barrier function, particularly in relation to neonatal inflammatory diseases such as necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). The lab employs advanced methodologies, including the use of human milk extracellular vesicles as potential therapeutic agents, and utilizes rare human patient samples, genetic mouse models, and patient-derived organoids to drive its research forward. The lab is recognized for its high-impact publications and has secured multiple funding sources, underscoring its prominence in the field. As the Lab Manager, the individual will oversee the organizational management of the lab, ensuring that day-to-day operations align with the research expectations set by the Principal Investigator (PI), collaborators, and funding sources. This includes maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements related to hazardous materials, rodent models, and human samples. The Lab Manager will be responsible for stocking the lab with necessary resources and equipment, managing the lab's budget, and supervising the training of Research Assistants and summer students. Additionally, the Lab Manager will maintain the lab's website and work closely with the PI to design, implement, and evaluate various research projects. In the capacity of a Research Associate, the individual will execute experiments related to the lab's two primary focus areas: the NEC animal model and the study of human milk extracellular vesicles. This involves independent management of experiments with neonatal mouse pups, including genetic rodent colony management, oral gavage, and the use of a hypoxic chamber. The role also encompasses tasks such as intestinal tissue harvest and processing, enteroid generation, immune cell isolation and culture, and various molecular biology techniques including PCR, qRT-PCR, and western blotting. For the second focus area, the Research Associate will isolate extracellular vesicles, quantify them, and conduct downstream analyses such as imaging, microRNA sequencing, and proteomics. The lab emphasizes mentorship and career development, providing training in research skills as well as professional growth opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate the day-to-day operations of the Andres Lab.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements for hazardous materials, rodent models, and human samples.
• Stock the lab with necessary resources and equipment.
• Manage the lab's fiscal allocation of the budget and spending.
• Supervise the training and oversight of Research Assistants or summer students.
• Maintain the Andres Lab website.
• Design, implement, and evaluate various research projects in collaboration with the PI.
• Oversee and execute experiments related to the NEC animal model and human milk extracellular vesicles.
• Manage genetic rodent colony and conduct oral gavage procedures.
• Perform intestinal tissue harvest and processing, enteroid generation, and immune cell isolation and culture.
• Conduct molecular biology techniques such as PCR, qRT-PCR, and western blotting.
• Isolate extracellular vesicles and conduct downstream analyses including imaging and microRNA sequencing.

Requirements

• Master's degree in a relevant field and 1 year of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Experience in a wet bench laboratory setting.
• Ability to work as part of a team and independently in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to juggle multiple tasks.
• Excellent recordkeeping and computer skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience in cell culture and tissue handling.
• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques.

Nice-to-haves

• Degree in biological sciences.
• 3+ years of experience in a wet bench laboratory.
• Experience in laboratory and/or mouse handling.
• Bioinformatics experience related to extracellular vesicle biology.
• Experience with microscopy and immunostaining.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and education.
• Opportunities for mentorship and career development.
• Access to cutting-edge research facilities and resources.