POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under moderate supervision, perform research work in medical and related technical. The Research Assistant 1 will perform research work and support scientists by performing standard molecular techniques (RNA extraction, qPCR, protein analysis by Western blotting, immunofluorescence, or immunohistochemistry), culturing cells and assessing tumor growth in animals. The research assistant will also collect, verify, record, and compile data and information related to the ongoing research carried out in the lab. The research assistant will be responsible for general laboratory maintenance. This position will work with animals. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Perform research work in medical and related technical areas involves use of lab skills. Perform research on human and murine cells treated with cancer therapies, biological substances (growth factors, cytokines, chemokines), or viruses to genetically manipulate the cells using RNA extraction, qPCR, protein analysis by Western blotting, immunofluorescence, or immunohistochemistry. (40%)
2. Conduct analysis of samples. Perform common molecular biology techniques, including flow cytometry, PCR, western blot, cell growth, etc., will be used to assess cells and tissues for their response to treatment or genetic manipulation. (20%)
3. Record results of experiments. Collect and record cell growth or tumor growth over time by counting, measuring, our using bioluminescence procedures.  Record tumor growth using caliper assessment or bioluminescent imaging. Collect tumors for additional analysis. Quantify target protein or gene expression from cells or tumors using statistical methods (20%)
4. Order laboratory supplies. Place orders through university channels or through direct contact with vendors, including cells, cell culture supplies, molecular biology supplies, cDNAs and other genetic tools, etc. Track and replace inventory as needed. (10%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCITONS

1. Maintain test equipment. Maintain tissues culture hoods, RT-PCR machines, spectrophotometer, Coulter Counters, liquid nitrogen tanks; annual certifications and service contracts and service, when needed. (5%)   
2. Maintain records and laboratory manuals. (2%)
3. Organize lab reagents (plasmids and reagents in freezers/refrigerators). (1%)
4. Test cell and organize cell lines in liquid nitrogen stocks. (2%)

CONTACTS

Department: Continuous contact with supervisor and lab members to discuss research and maintain workflow and order supplies

University: Infrequent contact with other departments to share information and collaborate on projects. Interaction with regulatory components (EHS, IACUC, IBC, IRB).

External: Infrequent contact with vendors to procure supplies.

Students: Continuous contact with graduate students within the laboratory to provide technical assistance, to gather information for ordering of supplies, and to update policies and procedures manuals.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

This position has no direct supervision of staff employees.

QUALIFICAITONS

Education/Experience: Bachelor’s degree in science and 0 to 1 year of experience or Associate's degree in an approved biotechnology program and 0 to 2 years of experience required.

REQUIRED SKILLS

1. Has knowledge of commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures of standard molecular techniques.
2. Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.
3. Ability to operate laboratory equipment: tissues culture hoods, RT-PCR machines, spectrophotometer, Coulter Counters, liquid nitrogen tanks.
4. Ability to meet consistent attendance.
5. Ability to interact with colleagues and supervisors face-to-face.
6. Must demonstrate compliance with university animal research and care (ARC) policies and procedures and compliance to regulations of the Animal Welfare Act, Public Health Service Policy, AAALAC guidelines and other applicable regulatory guidelines.
7. Must demonstrate compassion for animals within university facilities and dedication to the Animal Resource Center’s mission.  Must handle animals with care and respect at all times.
8. Previous experience working with animals preferred.
9. Must be able and willing to maintain a high standard of personal cleanliness and utilize protective gear to protect the health the animals.
10. Strong organization skills and good habit of maintaining a clean lab working environment; demonstrate attention to detail and accuracy, time management skills
11. Professional and effective verbal and written communication skills and good interpersonal skills with the ability to work and communicate with various individuals.
12. Must be highly motivated, responsible, dependable and a self-starter.
13. Must have the ability to maintain meticulous, complete, and easily retrievable laboratory data.
14. Must have the ability to willingly learn new techniques and procedures as needed, follow established protocols or laboratory procedures and request clarification if necessary.

WORKING CONDITIONS

General laboratory environment. The employee will be exposed to blood-borne pathogens and chemicals. Employee will need to wear appropriate protective equipment such as gloves, coat, and eyewear. Working conditions will require working at the bench in a molecular genetics/ biology laboratory, working with mice and other animal models in the laboratory and in the animal facility.

Case Western Reserve University's animal facilities are accredited by the Association for the Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care (AAALAC) and is managed according to the "Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals” appropriate Federal Animal Welfare Regulations, and the Public Health Service “Policy on the Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals."  This position, and all animal research personnel, are subject to internal compliance to SOM Animal Resource Center Standard Operating Procedures and to compliance regulations of the Animal Welfare Act, Public Health Service Policy, AAALAC guidelines, the State of Ohio Veterinary Practice Act, Federal Drug Enforcement Administration regulatory guidelines, US Food and Drug Administration Center for Veterinary Medicine regulations and other applicable regulatory guidelines.

In employment, as in education, Case Western Reserve University is committed to Equal Opportunity and Diversity.  Women, veterans, members of underrepresented minority groups, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

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Case Western Reserve University provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities.  Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact the Office of Equity at 216-368-3066 to request a reasonable accommodation.  Determinations as to granting reasonable accommodations for any applicant will be made on a case-by-case basis.

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