Research Assistant 2

Department Overview:

The Oregon National Primate Research Center (ONPRC) is located 12 miles west of the OHSU main campus, and sits on 162 acres of land featuring forested areas, research and administration buildings, indoor and outdoor animal housing, and 2-mile perimeter walking path. Our mission is to improve human health and the quality of life through the support of nonhuman primate research programs that advance our knowledge of the causes, preventions, treatments, and cures of debilitating diseases.

Function/Duties of Position:

Research Assistant for a Social Connectedness and Health project in which we examine how social leverage and network connectivity, along with biomarkers of health, may be altered by providing individuals control over a highly desired food resource. Under general supervision of PI, perform standardized behavioral observations to monitor and record social interactions between nonhuman primates living in outdoor group enclosures and evaluate levels of aggression, submission and affiliation. Use positive reinforcement techniques to help train nonhuman primates to participate in behavioral tasks. Assist in data analysis and report writing.

 

Key Responsibilities & Performance Standards

• Perform standardized behavioral observations (6+ hours per day) to monitor and record social interactions between nonhuman primates living in outdoor group enclosures
• Utilize positive reinforcement techniques to help train animals to participate in behavioral tasks
• Assist with data analysis and report writing
• As needed, perform various duties to fulfill the function of the position successfully

Required Qualifications:

Education:

• Bachelor's in relevant field OR

• Associate's AND experience

Experience:

• 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):

• Excellent interpersonal skills, including ability to communicate positively and effectively in oral and written formats, with research, administrative, and support staff regarding the needs and goals of the program
• Ability to interact with NHPs in a calm, respectful manner
• Ability to read and follow oral and written instructions, use basic computer programs (including spreadsheets, graphics and statistical programs)
• Ability to use handheld electronic devices to collect behavioral data
• Ability to think strategicaly and work accordingly, producing effective results and working efficiently within the time constraints of the position
• Ability to work both independently and in group settings
• Ability to prioritize work demands

Preferred Qualifications:

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree in biology, psychology, anthropology, or related field

Experience:

• 1 year experience in a research setting
• Experience with animals

Job Related Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (Competencies):

• Knowledge and technical experience in behavioral observation and data collection of rhesus macaques, preferably with social network type data
• Experience training animals to participate in behavioral tasks using positive reinforcement techniques
• Experience with macaques
• Experience manipulating and analyzing computerized records of behavioral observations

Additional Details:

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Work performed in areas where there is a potential risk of exposure to zoonotic agents throgh injury, by direct contact with animals or their tissues and body fluids, or by contact with equipment contaminated by animals or their tissues and body fluids
• Work may be performed in animal housing areas which are not climate controlled, and may have wet and/or slippery surfaces
• May need to stand for long periods of time.

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 aaeo@ohsu.edu.