Research Assistant 1

Salary Grade

Case Western Reserve University is committed to providing a transparent estimate of the salary for this position at the time of its posting. The starting wage rate is $17.65 per hour, depending on qualifications, experience, department budgets, and industry data.

Employees receive more than just a paycheck. University employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare, retirement plans, tuition assistance, paid time off, and a winter recess.

Job Description

POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under moderate supervision, the Research Assistant 1 will support chemical biology and chemical proteomics research in the laboratory. This position will perform routine biochemical and cell-based research tasks, prepare and process samples, record experimental results, maintain laboratory records and supplies, and assist with established experimental workflows under the direction of the principal investigator or senior lab personnel. This role supports research focused on small-molecule ligands and protein function in cancer and immunology-related systems. This position will not work with animal models or animal-derived samples.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Perform routine biochemical and/or cell-based experiments under moderate supervision using established laboratory protocols, including cell culture support, protein/biochemical assays, and sample preparation for downstream analysis. (25%)
• Prepare reagents, buffers, cell culture materials, and experimental samples; assist with routine ligand-engagement and proteomics sample-preparation workflows according to written protocols and principal investigator instructions. (15%)
• Conduct analysis of samples and collect, organize, and record results for specific experiments or closely related series of experiments. (20%)
• Maintain detailed and organized experimental records, sample inventories, data files, and laboratory databases to support reproducibility and compliance. (15%)
• Maintain laboratory supplies and test equipment, including inventory tracking, ordering routine supplies, organizing supply requests, receipts, and inventory information, and alert the principal investigator to supply needs or purchasing issues. Perform basic equipment care and report maintenance or safety issues to the principal investigator. (15%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Assist with basic data summaries, quality checks, and preparation of simple tables or figures for internal laboratory discussion. (5%)
• Participate in lab meetings, seminars, and training activities. (3%)
• Perform other duties as assigned. (2%)

CONTACTS

Department: Frequent interaction with principal investigator and lab members to receive instructions, report progress, and coordinate routine laboratory tasks.

University: Occasional interaction with core facilities under principal investigator direction.

External: Occasional interaction with vendors for routine supply orders or technical support.

Students: Occasional interaction with undergraduate or graduate trainees in the laboratory.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

No supervisory responsibilities. May demonstrate routine laboratory procedures to students or new lab members after appropriate training and under principal investigator direction.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Experience: Bachelors degree and 0 to 1 year of relevant laboratory research experience or Associates degree in an approved biotechnology program and 0 to 2 years of experience required. Bachelors degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, chemistry, or related field preferred. Experience with cell culture, protein assays, or basic biochemical techniques preferred.

REQUIRED SKILLS

• Basic laboratory skills in molecular biology, biochemistry, chemistry, or cell biology, with willingness to learn new techniques. Strong organization, communication, and teamwork skills.
• Willingness to learn and work with artificial intelligence (AI) tools and technologies.
• Ability to demonstrate successful support, education, and advocacy for all students, aligned with the values, mission, and messaging of the university, while adhering to the staff policy on conflict of commitment and interest.
• Ability to meet consistent attendance
• Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors, and customers face to face.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed primarily in a laboratory environment with exposure to biological and chemical hazards. May involve handling cell lines, chemical reagents, and standard laboratory instrumentation. Personal protective equipment, including lab coat, gloves and goggles, will be provided to limit exposure to hazards. Occasional lifting of laboratory materials (up to ~20 lbs.).

Hybrid Eligibility

This position is eligible for hybrid work arrangement up to two remote days per week at the discretion of the department. New employees may begin a hybrid schedule upon approval from the supervisor, successful completion of an orientation period and signing the remote work checklist certification form.

EEO Statement

Case Western Reserve University is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are protected under federal and state laws and university policy from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin, protected veteran status, disability, age and genetic information.

Reasonable Accommodations

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

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