Job Title: Research Assistant I
Department: Confirm
Reports To: Confirm
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
FTE: 1.0 FTE
Salary Range : $35,000-$38,000/annually
SUMMARY
Assist in research related to drug resistance in human soft tissue sarcoma using molecular biology, cell culture, and general lab duties.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES other duties as assigned

• Perform cell culture using aseptic techniques.
• DNA, RNA, and protein extraction.
• PCR amplification and DNA sequencing.
• Construction of plasmid DNA constructs containing designated mutations.
• Western blot protein analysis.
• Participate in laboratory and biosafety training and maintain safe laboratory practices.
• Accurate and timely data entry and maintenance of laboratory notebook.
• General lab chores including media and reagent preparation, cleaning, and inventory, restocking lab supplies, and overall support to lab personnel.

QUALIFICATIONS
Required:

• Keen interest in cancer biology research; two-year commitment required.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Strong work ethic and dedication.
• Ability to multi-task, think analytically and troubleshoot experiments.
• Enthusiasm for project collaboration and cooperation.
• Attention to detail in all aspects of lab work, including following experimental protocols and thorough data analysis.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
Bachelor's (University) degree in biology, chemistry, mathematics, biochemistry, or microbiology. Ability to operate standard molecular biology equipment.
LANGUAGE SKILLS
Ability to read and interpret English language technical documents without difficulty, such as safety regulations, operating and maintenance instructions, research papers, and procedure manuals. Ability to make accurate entries in laboratory notebooks and databases. Efficient English verbal communication and understanding of experimental plans, procedures, observations, and results. Comfortable communicating directly with and following instructions from other lab personnel.
MATHEMATICAL SKILLS
Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute serial dilutions, mean, median, standard deviation, rate, ratio, and percent, and to draw and interpret line charts. Understanding of the meaning of units of concentration such as nanomolar and micromolar, their essential distinction and interconversion.
COMPUTER SKILLS
Job absolutely requires specialized computer skills which will be in constant use. Must be adept at using various applications including database, spreadsheet, word processing, and e-mail. Adept at using Microsoft office suite including Excel and Outlook. Familiarity with Slack or MS Teams is preferred, but not essential.
REASONING ABILITY
Ability to apply common sense in situations involving safety and integrity of persons, environment, materials, and data, consistent with the required level of education and research experience. Sufficient understanding to carry out instructions competently, when furnished in written, oral, or diagram form at a level of detail expected for those with the required educational and technical background.
LOCATION and ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• 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.

Portland VA Research Foundation is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. 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.
Apply online at and include a CV and cover letter explaining your interest in the position