This post-doctoral position is an exciting opportunity to develop a novel ex vivo organoid model system for multiple myeloma. You will be working with a group that has already created a similar model for acute myeloid leukemia and we have funding to look at creating a similar model for multiple myeloma. This project is both translational and basic science focused, and the goal is to use this model to both predict patient responses and study novel drug combinations. You will be working with a pharma team on the project, clinicians who take care of patients, and basic scientists in the lab. A great opportunity to make contacts in both academia and pharma. Ambitious post-doctoral fellows who want to build a foundation for their career are desired!

 

As a post-doctoral fellow, you will be be part of a collaborative group working on leukemias and blood cancers. Dr. Traer’s lab works within the hematologic malignancies group at OHSU with Dr. Brian Druker, Dr. Tyner, and others. You will be working primarily with Dr. Traer and his lab: designing experiments, performing cell culture, ordering supplies/organization, data analysis and presentation of data. There are experienced lab members to draw upon in the community for many different techniques, providing a supportive and helpful environment to do science in. OHSU also allows for a broader education with seminars, lab meetings, etc.

 

Required: extensive experience with cell culture, curiosity and drive, and desire to work with a team dedicated to developing the next generation of organoid models to help cure blood cancers. Experience with flow cytometry or primary patient samples is highly desirable.

 

The Knight Cancer Institute, known as one of the pioneers in personalized cancer medicine, is an international leader in research and cancer treatment. We are comprised of biologists, chemists, biomedical engineers, computationalists, and clinicians conducting groundbreaking translational cancer research to help people maintain a high quality of life and reduce cancer mortality, and to have a positive impact on the state of Oregon. Our Commitment to Diversity: We are committed to increasing the diversity of the campus community. We are dedicated to promoting inclusion and multiculturalism by having outstanding researchers of diverse backgrounds work together on multiple projects. We encourage high-risk, high-reward research projects because defeating cancer requires out-of-the-box thinking and new perspectives. Our research is milestone driven to ensure that each project is fulfilling its stated goals.

Every Knight Cancer employee is expected to embody our guiding principles:

• We act BOLDLY—Breakthroughs require pushing the boundaries of science, exploring new frontiers, and thinking differently
• We SUPPORT each other—Respect leads to trust, which leads to excellence
• We work as a CONNECTED team—We must leverage our collective brain power to conquer cancer because no one individual can do it alone Always Yes

Laboratory research:

• Cell culture experiments and maintenance of cells
• Assist with media changes and drug administration during experiment
• Prepare, run, and analyze flow cytometry samples
• Independently participates in research execution and performs other general laboratory techniques
• Provides stability and continuity of knowledge as people and projects change
• Meet regularly with team to identify potential synergies and reduce inefficiencies across projects
• Increased innovation and problem solving ability required

Data Analysis

• Perform qualitative and quantitative research data analysis, programming, database development and management, research data visualization, and interpretation of a wide variety of research data, especially flow cytometry data.
• Prepares reports, charts, tables, and other visual aids to interpret and communicate data and results with a variety of programs, especially R, Excel.
• Conducts data/statistical studies in support of research proposals and protocols. Maintains and develops research gathering, retrieval and reporting systems.

Laboratory Organization and Compliance:  

• Responsible for managing project samples and ensure project data is properly recorded and stored
• Organizes program work space
• Ordering and maintaining supplies for lab.  

Lab Support

• Support overall lab function by maintaining and fixing equipment, ordering supplies, and troubleshooting instrument problems
• Training and supervising of students and RA’s, and/or preparation of written reports and, as applicable, regulatory documentation

Additional duties as assigned by project leader or laboratory manager. 

• Doctoral degree in relevant field 

• Experienced in cell culture and basic laboratory skills. Ability to organize, interpret, and present data. Ability to both work independently and contribute to the team.

• Excellent communication, analytical and organizational skills

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team while being collaborative in resolving problems

• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks at one time

• Must possess energy and drive to coordinate multiple projects simultaneously

• Ability to use tact and diplomacy to maintain effective working relationships

• Ability to operate scientific equipment and develop and troubleshoot experimental protocols

• Experience handling chemical and biologically hazardous materials

• Knowledge of policy and regulations applicable to the laboratory, including but not limited to safety

• Demonstrated ability to learn new and innovative processes quickly

• Experience in blood cancers and/or cancer biology

• Typical schedule: M-F, rarely nights and weekends
• Work schedule may vary depending on job/study requirements
• Work location is primarily in the Knight Cancer Research Building. Remote work is not a guarantee.
• May be required to travel to other Knight worksite locations, including using the tram.
• Lab work involves possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low doses of radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids, presence of carcinogenic substances and human and animal tissues and fluids, including whole animals.
• May include travel to meetings for educational purposes and/or for data presentations
• Ability to be comfortable with long periods of standing and/or sitting
• Ability to occasionally lift and/or carry objects weighing up to 20 pounds, with occasional stoops and bends
• Comfort working in a fast-paced environment with frequent interruptions

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.