The Department of Biochemistry & Biophysics invites applications for a full-time (1.00 FTE), 12-month, fixed-term Research Associate position. Reappointment is at the discretion of the Department Head.

Appointment at the fixed-term Research Associate rank is anticipated; however, appointment at a promoted rank may be considered depending upon the qualifications of the successful candidate.

The incumbent will independently lead a research project, as well as perform roles related to lab management and student mentoring. The research project focuses on elucidating the molecular mechanisms by which bridge-like lipid transport proteins mediate lipid trafficking within cells using a variety of structural, biochemical, and genetic approaches. To accomplish these aims, the incumbent will work with a range of model organisms and cultured cell systems, including C. elegans, D. melanogaster, HEK cells, and HeLa cells. This work will uncover the role of bridge-like lipid transport proteins in the cell and advance our understanding of how dysfunction of these proteins lead to neurological disorders. This project is a cornerstone of the Clark Lab’s research program and directly advances the Department of Biochemistry & Biophysics’ growing emphasis on neuroscience research. The position will also strengthen the College of Science’s mission to drive curiosity-driven discovery through interdisciplinary research. The work will involve inter- and intra-departmental collaborations in advanced imaging, computational biology, and structural biology, expanding the scope and impact of the project while providing valuable training and mentorship opportunities. For more information about the Clark Lab, please visit: https://the-clark-lab.com/

This position sits within the Biochemistry Biophysics unit in OSU’s College of Science https://science.oregonstate.edu/

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Oregon State has a statewide presence with campuses in Corvallis and Bend, the OSU Portland Center and the Hatfield Marine Science Center on the Pacific Coast in Newport.


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Total Rewards Package:


Oregon State University offers a comprehensive benefits package with benefits eligible positions that is designed to meet the needs of employees and their families including:

• Medical, Dental, Vision and Basic Life. OSU pays 95% of premiums for you and your eligible dependents.

• Free confidential mental health and emotional support services, and counseling resources.

• Retirement savings paid by the university.

• A generous paid leave package, including holidays, vacation and sick leave.

• Tuition reduction benefits for you or your qualifying dependents at OSU or the additional six Oregon Public Universities.

• Robust Work Life programs including Dual Career assistance resources, flexible work arrangements, a Family Resource Center, Affinity Groups and an Employee Assistance Program.

• Optional lifestyle benefits such as pet, accident, and critical illness insurance, giving you peace of mind and the support you need to thrive in all aspects of your life.


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Future and current OSU employees can use the Benefits Calculator to learn more about the full value of the benefits provided at OSU.

Research – 50%
• Maintain and expand transgenic strains of C. elegans and Drosophila melanogaster
• Maintain and expand transgenic cell lines in a BSL-2 environment
• Perform protein isolation and purification from cultured cell lines and model organisms for downstream biochemical and biophysical analyses.
• Assist in experimental design, execution, troubleshooting, and optimization of protocols.
• Coordinate with institutional core facilities for imaging, proteomics, or structural biology experiments.

Lab Management – 25%
• Help maintain the smooth operation of the lab by overseeing inventories of supplies
• Purchase lab supplies as needed
• Perform routine maintenance of lab equipment and help coordinate equipment repair when needed
• Manage shipment and receiving of research samples
• Assist PI with coordination of other functions necessary to support the research group

Scholarly Contribution – 15%
• Interpret, critically evaluate, and present experimental findings at lab meetings, departmental seminars, and national conferences.
• Collaborate with lab members, inter- and intra-departmental partners, and external collaborators to advance shared research goals.
• Contribute to manuscript preparation, figure generation, and peer-reviewed publication of research findings.
• Assist in writing sections of grant proposals or progress reports related to the project.

Other Duties as Assigned – 10%
• Mentor and provide training to undergraduate, graduate students, and other trainees in experimental techniques and data analysis.
• Maintain accurate records, protocols, and data management practices in accordance with university and departmental standards.
• Contribute to maintaining a collaborative, safe, and inclusive laboratory environment.

• PhD in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Cellular Biology, Molecular Biology or related field
• Demonstrable experience in molecular biology and protein biochemistry techniques
• Strong data analysis, problem-solving and critical thinking skills
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a research environment
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present complex ideas clearly.

This position is designated as a critical or security-sensitive position; therefore, the incumbent must successfully complete a criminal history check and be determined to be position qualified as per University Standard: 05-010 et seq. Incumbents are required to self-report convictions and those in youth programs may have additional criminal history checks every 24 months.

• Experience in research project management
• Experience with cryo-electron microscopy
• Ability to foster equity, access, and inclusion in all research efforts

This position is based in a research laboratory on the Oregon State University campus, with normal business hours (Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.) expected. Research timelines may occasionally require evening or weekend work. Duties involve standard lab activities, including standing for extended periods, use of microscopes and other equipment. Occasional travel to conferences or collaborator labs may be required.

When applying you will be required to attach the following electronic documents:

1) A resume/CV; and

2) A cover letter indicating how your qualifications and experience have prepared you for this position.

You will also be required to submit the names of at least three professional references, their e-mail addresses and telephone numbers as part of the application process.

For additional information please contact:

Sarah Clark

(541) 737-4511

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability, protected veteran, and other protected status.

OSU will conduct a review of the National Sex Offender Public website prior to hire.

Starting salary within the salary range will be commensurate with skills, education, and experience.

OSU is a fair chance employer committed to inclusive hiring. We encourage applications from candidates who bring a wide range of lived experience including involvement with the justice system. This job has “critical or security-sensitive” responsibilities. If you are selected as a finalist, your initial job offer will be contingent upon the results of a job-related pre-employment check (such as a background check, motor vehicle history check, sexual misconduct reference check, etc.). Background check results do not automatically disqualify a candidate. Take a look at our Background Checks website including the for candidates section for more details. If you have questions or concerns about the pre-employment check, please contact OSU’s Employee and Labor Relations team at employee.relations@oregonstate.edu.