Risevoic
Research Assistant 2
Company : Oregon Health & Science University
Location : Portland, OR, 97201
Job Type : Full Time / Part Time
Date Posted : 12 January 2026
Department Overview
The Beatty Lab at OHSU is seeking to recruit a Research Assistant 2 (RA 2) to conduct research using chemical probes to study bacterial pathogens. The RA2 will be part of an interdisciplinary team studying enzyme regulation in Mycobacterium tuberculosis and other mycobacterial species. This NIAID-funded project combines enzyme biochemistry, proteomics, microbiology, and chemistry to make new discoveries. Prior research experience with an advanced degree in biochemistry is preferred.
The ideal candidate for this position will have research experience in biochemistry, microbiology, molecular biology, BSL-2 (or BSL-3) bacterial culture, and protein purification. The candidate should also have enthusiasm for applying his/her knowledge towards medically-relevant problems. This position is particularly well-suited for a researcher who would like to gain new hands-on experience in a variety of research areas and techniques. Projects will expose the candidate to numerous methods used in chemical biology and biochemistry.
Qualified applicants must be organized, reliable, self-sufficient, and goal-oriented. The successful applicant will need to assist in ordering materials and supplies, maintaining detailed records, analyze data, and document results. The candidate must be comfortable working independently and alongside other researchers.
Function/Duties of Position
Contribute to the scientific direction and planning for a project within the lab.
Perform research experiments and analyze results for project within the lab.
Maintain lab equipment and supplies.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's in relevant field OR Associate's AND 3 years of relevant experience OR
- 4 years of relevant experience OR
- Equivalent combination of training and experience
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree in Microbiology, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, or Related Field.
Experience or major course in molecular biology methods, including CRISPR/Cas9.
Prior experience with BSL-2 bacterial culture.
Prior experience purifying proteins.
Interest in proteomics and infectious diseases.
Bioconjugation chemistry
Protein purification,
Fluorescence microscopy,
Mammalian cell culture. Demonstrated success completing research projects. Proven ability to conduct research experiments.
Molecular biology,
Bioconjugation chemistry.
Familiarity with experimental design, including replicates, controls and reproducibility.
Excellent reading and writing skills.
Ability to learn new methods quickly and work independently.
Fluent in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
Additional Details
A full time research associate II is expected to work a minimum of 40 hours per week during normal working hours. However, some evening and weekend work will be necessary on occasion. Additional safety training will be required to work with cell lines/ infectious bacteria or viruses/ working within a BSL-2 environment.
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.
Portland, OR
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Frequently asked questions
Working as a Research Assistant 2 in Portland, especially within biomedical settings like OHSU, involves frequent application of biochemical and microbiological methods. Candidates should anticipate routine protein purification, bacterial culture under BSL-2, and data analysis tasks, reflecting the hands-on nature emphasized in local research positions.
Compared to entry-level jobs, the Research 2 title generally demands advanced skills like molecular biology techniques, enzyme biochemistry, and independent project contributions. This mid-level role often expects candidates to handle complex protocols and contribute actively to experimental design and lab management.
Progression from Research Assistant 2 can lead to roles such as Research Scientist or specialized technician positions. Additional experience in proteomics or infectious disease research, common at OHSU, bolsters advancement prospects within both academic and biotech sectors.
Certifications related to BSL-2 or BSL-3 laboratory safety, as well as training in chemical biology protocols, are highly valuable. In Portland, institutions like OHSU prioritize candidates with documented biosafety competence due to the nature of pathogen research.
OHSU’s interdisciplinary teams blend enzyme biochemistry, proteomics, and infectious disease studies, offering Research Assistant 2s exposure to cutting-edge techniques. The institute’s emphasis on diversity and inclusion creates a collaborative atmosphere that supports career growth.
At OHSU, the Research Assistant 2 actively contributes to NIAID-funded research by conducting experiments on mycobacterial enzyme regulation. This involvement demands meticulous lab work and data analysis aligned with federal research standards, elevating the position’s scientific impact.
Portland shows steady demand for biomedical research assistants, but competition remains moderate due to the presence of renowned institutions like OHSU. Candidates with specialized skills in molecular biology and biosafety practices stand out in local applications.
Research Assistant 2 salaries in Portland typically range from $48,000 to $62,000 annually, reflecting the city’s cost of living and the specialized nature of biochemical and microbiology research roles found at institutions like OHSU.
Excel skills are crucial for managing experimental data, performing analyses, and maintaining detailed lab records. At OHSU, strong command of Excel supports efficient documentation and contributes to successful research outcomes.
Yes, the Research Assistant 2 role at OHSU integrates techniques like bioconjugation chemistry and fluorescence microscopy, enabling hands-on experience with advanced biochemical methods important for infectious disease research.