Research Assistant 2 - job 1 of 5

Department Overview

At the Sleep, Chronobiology, and Health Laboratory within OHSU's School of Nursing, we perform research and innovation to improve the lives of all individuals through biomedical research.

 

The appointee shall provide services as assigned by the supervisor in furtherance of the university's missions and goals of teaching, research, patient care, outreach and public service. The successful candidate will work on a variety of projects under the direction of Andrew W McHill, PhD, Assistant Professor and Director of the Sleep, Chronobiology, and Health Laboratory within the OHSU School of Nursing. This research is aimed at understanding the effects of disturbed sleep and circadian rhythms on physiology and pathophysiology in humans. In particular, we are investigating the adverse health effects of disrupted sleeping patterns, habitual diet, shift work, and the mechanisms underlying the adverse health of performing activities during the night. These studies will lead to interventions designed to improve the health, safety and well-being of shift-workers and vulnerable populations.

 

Responsibilities include data collection in human volunteers using a variety of noninvasive physiological monitoring devices (e.g., EKG, blood pressure, breathing, sleep, core body temperature, metabolic rate); set up, test and maintain equipment. These measurement sessions in the laboratory will be on a variable schedule, including regular overnight, early morning, and weekend shifts. When not making measurements in the laboratory other duties (mostly during the daytime) may include administrative tasks as needed (e.g. preparing and submitting Institutional Review Board documents, medically screen volunteer research participants over the phone and in person).

 

This position requires several (3-4) days of overnight shifts every month for in-laboratory studies. These overnight shifts may span across a period 10-14 days.

Function/Duties of Position

• Assisting Dr. McHill, postdoctoral research fellows and other research assistants in conducting research projects in human volunteers.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with major courses in the field, OR
• Associate’s degree and three (3) years of relevant experience, OR 
• 4 years of relevant experience, OR
• Equivalent combination of training and experience

Job Related Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (Competencies):

• Knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Good organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills.
• Exercises discretion at all times when dealing with issues of a sensitive nature to maintain participant confidentiality 
• Exercises integrity at all times in regard to interactions with others and in performing research. 
• Ability to work overnight and weekend hours while monitoring research participants.
• Must be able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without accommodation

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a biological science field
• Experience in clinical research especially related to human subjects research.

Job Related Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (Competencies):

• Specialized experience in exercise science, circadian rhythm, or sleep research.
• Specialized experience with computer programing and/or digital media.
• Experience working effectively with racially and ethnically diverse populations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 
• Ability to work both independently and in a small group setting.
• Ability to interact in a positive and productive manner with a diverse lab community.

Additional Details

• Working hours of this position will vary as it will include evenings, overnight and weekends shifts.

All are welcome

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 [email protected].