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Senior Embryologist

Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States


Department Overview: The Senior Embryologist provides clinical embryology research and support for the human in vitro fertilization research program, with an emphasis on higher-level human gamete, pre‑implantation embryo and embryonic stem cell basic and clinical research, specialty skills, and decision making at the OHSU Center for Embryonic Cell and Gene Therapy (CECGT) (http://www.ohsu.edu/xd/research/centers-institutes/embryonic-cell-gene-therapy-center/ ).

Function / Duties of Position
The employee will conduct proof‑of‑concept research on mouse and nonhuman primate gametes, embryos and pluripotent stem cells and then translate promising technologies and novel therapeutic concepts to human gametes, embryos and stem cells. The position also manages experimental worksheets and databases, procurement and storage of donated human gametes and embryos for research, analyzes research data, writes and publishes manuscripts, progress reports and presents research accomplishments at conferences, and assists with writing grant proposals. The employee is responsible for overseeing day‑to‑day animal and human embryology core operations and assisting in planning experiments, developing new techniques and assays, and creating detailed protocols and SOPs.

Clinical Research

Provide specific assisted reproductive techniques on mouse, nonhuman primate and human gametes and embryos, including ovarian stimulations, oocyte retrievals, fertilization by conventional IVF and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), gene editing, embryo culture and embryo transfer.

Perform embryo biopsies and sample collections for pre‑implantation genetic testing procedures.

Cryopreservation of embryos and gametes.

Develop novel in‑vitro maturation and in‑vitro gametogenesis (IVG) approaches.

Derive and maintain embryonic stem cells (ESC).

Participate in Center for Embryonic Cell and Gene Therapy activities on evenings and weekends.

Core Embryology Laboratory Lead Responsibilities

Review Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), oversee updates and maintenance of embryology equipment.

Manage and maintain the human gamete, human embryo and human embryonic stem cell databases.

Plan and manage human gamete and embryo donations for research, maintain frozen gamete/embryo databases.

Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor of Science (Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology or related field).

5 years of experience with assisted reproductive technology (ART).

Two years of experience may be substituted with a Master of Science degree.

Demonstrated proficiency in PGS (Pre‑implantation Genetic Screening) required within six months of hire.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Independent proficiency in embryology and cell culture techniques listed above.

Ability to communicate effectively, both written and oral.

Ability to work independently and in a small group setting, and one‑on‑one with collaborators and clients in a positive and productive manner.

Work efficiently and skillfully with a variety of diverse staff and collaborators.

Experience with relevant software.

Demonstrated independence and competence to perform data management and analysis of research findings, including use of spreadsheets, graphics and statistical programs.

Ability to prioritize work demands and coordinate research protocols with other staff.

Organizational skills and careful attention to detail to satisfactorily perform job duties.

Laboratory management and quality control skills.

High level of self‑motivation and integrity.

Preferred Qualifications

PhD in Developmental Biology, Genetics, Molecular Biology.

5+ years of clinical IVF experience.

Prefer 3 years of clinical IVF experience.

7 years relevant research experience in a laboratory setting with background in embryology, reproductive/molecular/cellular biology, animal physiology, or endocrinology research.

Additional Details
This 0.25 FTE position is located at the OHSU South Waterfront in Portland, Oregon. As a part‑time position, there is schedule flexibility – including ability to work evenings/weekends – as long as projects are completed and deadlines met. This role will be in contact with animal and human tissues and fluids and will be responsible for fluid and tissue collection as related to study protocol. Training will be provided for proper handling, processes and procedures.

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement
All are welcome. OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti‑racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply. To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.edu.

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