OHSU

Research & Academic Volunteer Services

Experience and participate in the research and academic environment at OHSU

Welcome

Research & Academic Volunteer Services connects potential volunteers to various opportunities, orients them to the complex OHSU environment, and guides them through the volunteer registration process. This program also links Research, Academic, and Central Services departments to interested volunteers.

Hours of Operation

Walk-in hours:

  • Tuesdays, 1pm-3pm
  • Or make an appointment by e-mailing RAVolunteer@ohsu.edu, subject: Appointment Request

Location:

Locations can vary - contact us! We will either set up an appointment & location, or notify you of where our weekly "Walk-in Hours" session is being hosted.

Volunteer Voices

Royer_Lacey3

Three years ago while taking a cell biology course, Lacey Royer, found her passion in science. During that course she realized that she wanted to be a doctor with a possible emphasis on cancer scientific research. In December of 2010 she began volunteering with an OHSU Hematology/Oncology Research laboratory at the Knight Cancer Institute under Angela Fleischman, M.D. /PhD. Since Royer began over two years ago she has learned about cell culture, microscopy, cell staining, processing patient and mice blood samples, cell sorting and counting, and attends weekly lab meetings. Now that she has gained a great knowledge of the lab she spends a majority of her time working with mouse models that are under certain experimental conditions. She takes blood samples and analyzes them using specialized cell counter and monitor changes among their blood levels, health, and behavior.

When asked, Royer describes the her time as "…extremely beneficial…I have learned so much, not only about scientific research but about myself. I have performed tasks that I never thought I could do and know that I have what it takes to do anything I set my mind to. My time at OHSU has also made me a better person and student by learning how to work best under pressure."

To learn about how to become a volunteer like Royer, see our guide to registering as a volunteer. To learn about the research conducted at the Knight Cancer Institute see OHSU Knight Cancer Institute Research Programs.


How to become a Volunteer

Check out our step-by-step guide here to learn how to become a volunteer within Research, Academics, or Central Services at OHSU.

Curious to see what opportunities we have? Check them out here.

Spotlight Volunteer Opportunity

OHSU Farmer's Market

Come and develop a basic understanding of how a farmer's market is coordinated by becoming a volunteer. Volunteers will learn what sustainable food systems look like in action, increase knowledge of food and nutrition, interact with healthcare professionals, and develop relationships with small farmers and business owners. Specific duties include (but are not limited to): Morning and evening setup and break down; process debit cards in exchange for tokens; collect vendor fees; count visitors for grant studies, and special projects based on mutual interests.

Eligibility: At least 16 years of age (18 years of age for some tasks); able to lift minimum of 20 lbs; friendly and enthusiastic.

Commitment Requirements: 9:00am-4:00pm every Tuesday, June-October; 2 hour, 4 hour, 6 hour, and 8 hour shifts are available. Must volunteer at least 40 cumulative hours of service from June-October.

Interested? Contact: Eecole Copen, Market Manager, 503-494-8792

Additional projects may be arranged based on the final applicant's interests. Interested? Click here to view our current list of volunteer opportunities.