Senior Research Assistant; Biofabrication

Department Overview

Overview: The Cancer Early Detection Advanced Research (CEDAR) Center is a collaborative institution within the OHSU Knight Cancer Institute. The Knight Cancer Institute, known as one of the pioneers in personalized cancer medicine, is an international leader in research and cancer treatment. At CEDAR our mission is to detect and stop lethal cancers at the earliest stage because early detection saves lives.

This is an ambitious goal, one that requires novelty, creativity, and innovation. 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, create a global early detection community, and have a positive impact on the Oregon economy.

Our Commitment to Diversity: CEDAR is 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

As a Senior Research Assistant
, you will be part of the Knight Precision Cancer Biofabrication Hub, which combines bioprinting and microfluidics methods and cancer biology to address complex problems in cancer research and treatment. We seek candidates with experience (Master's degree preferable) in Tissue Engineering, Biomaterials, Cell and Tissue Biofabrication, 3D printing and/or organs on-a-chip. General expertise on bioengineering, or a related field will be considered, and at least one year of industrial experience, preferably in 3D printing or biofabrication would be preferred.

The ideal candidate will have demonstrated project management skills, including developing and implementing SOPs, and possess comprehensive laboratory research knowledge. Responsibilities include designing and implementing experiments, managing research studies independently, operating and supporting laboratory equipment, generating SOPs, and supervising students and Research Assistants. Additionally, the role involves assisting in experimental design, maintaining laboratory spaces and supplies, and organizing samples, datasets, and studies.

Candidates should have a growth mindset and outstanding communication skills, be comfortable working individually and in collaborative teams, and contribute to the scientific direction and planning of projects within the Biofabrication Hub.

Education & experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and 1 year of relevant experience OR Equivalent combination of training and experience
• Experience with 3D printing or bioprinting, tissue engineering, microfluidics/organs on-a-chip

Knowledge, skills, and abilities:

• 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 policies and regulations applicable to the laboratory, including but not limited to safety
• Demonstrated ability to learn new and innovative processes quickly

• Master’s degree in Engineering,…