Research Assistant 1- Temporary - job 2 of 2

As a Research Assistant at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), your primary responsibilities include conducting and analyzing scientific research related to cardiovascular disease and aging. This involves working with in vitro cell cultures, in vivo animal models, and human tissues. You'll also prepare written reports summarizing your findings and support the development of new experiments while ensuring lab operations run smoothly. Your work will greatly contribute to innovative research that OHSU is known for.

To apply for the Research Assistant position at Oregon Health & Science University, you need a Bachelor's Degree, or an Associate's degree with two years of relevant experience, or three years of relevant experience. Furthermore, a combination of training and experience may also fulfill the qualifications. Essential skills include organizational abilities, basic computer skills, and effective communication, indicating a good fit for this dynamic research role.

While prior research experience is preferred, it is not strictly necessary for the Research Assistant position at Oregon Health & Science University. The role does value individuals with a background in molecular biology, especially in cardiovascular research. However, if you have a strong interest in science and medicine, along with a willingness to learn, you are encouraged to apply and be part of this innovative environment.

The typical work schedule for a Research Assistant at Oregon Health & Science University involves working from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. However, depending on the ongoing experiments, there may be a need for evening and weekend hours. Flexibility in your schedule can be beneficial to meet research needs and achieve desired outcomes.

Yes, Oregon Health & Science University highly values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive workforce. In their hiring process for the Research Assistant position, they encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds and those who promote cultural diversity to apply. OHSU aims for an equal opportunity, affirmative action organization that does not discriminate against applicants on any protected class status.

When answering this question, it’s important to highlight specific laboratory techniques you've used, especially those related to molecular biology, in vitro, and in vivo studies. Mention any hands-on experience you have with microscopes or processing imaging data, and illustrate how these experiences prepared you for the responsibilities at Oregon Health & Science University.

Expressing a genuine passion for cardiovascular research is key. You could discuss personal motivations, whether academic or personal, and how this interest aligns with the mission and projects at Oregon Health & Science University. Sharing specific instances where you engaged in related studies can also strengthen your answer.

It’s critical to acknowledge potential challenges, such as tight deadlines or complex experiments. Discuss how you would approach these challenges with a proactive mindset, employing effective communication and teamwork skills, which are integral at Oregon Health & Science University, to navigate and resolve issues.

Recording accurate data is vital in research roles. You can mention methods you've used in the past, like utilizing digital platforms for data entry, ensuring that you double-check data integrity, and organizing your notes systematically. Highlighting any tools or software you are familiar with is also advantageous for the Research Assistant role at OHSU.

Select a project that emphasizes teamwork and communication. Discuss your specific role, how you collaborated with others, and the impact the collective effort had on project outcomes. For the Research Assistant position at Oregon Health & Science University, showcasing your ability to work in a team-oriented environment will resonate well.

Share your approach to learning, which may include self-guided tutorials, consulting colleagues, or online courses. It's also good to reflect on how adaptability plays a key role in a fast-paced research environment like Oregon Health & Science University, where new technologies are frequently introduced.

Discuss your openness to feedback and the importance of constructive criticism in the scientific process. Emphasize how you view feedback as a tool for growth and improvement, and provide an example from past experiences where you positively transformed your work based on input from others, especially in a collaborative research setting.

Highlight that effective communication is crucial, especially when sharing findings with your team and writing reports. In the context of the Research Assistant role at Oregon Health & Science University, you might elaborate on how strong communication facilitates collaboration and ensures everyone is aligned in research objectives.

Talk about specific organizational tools or methods you use to prioritize your work. Providing a concrete example, such as how you managed time-sensitive tasks for a complex project, will illustrate your organizational skills, which are highly valued for the Research Assistant position at Oregon Health & Science University.

Your response should reflect an understanding of the research done at OHSU and how it aligns with your career goals. Express your enthusiasm for being part of innovative research and your desire to contribute to a team that is leading advancements in the medical field.