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 perform research work in medical and related technical areas supporting the laboratory within Case Western Reserve University and the Cardiovascular Research Institute. The research assistant will assist scientists in executing experimental procedures, maintaining cell cultures and animal colonies, and performing standard molecular biology techniques. This position contributes directly to the labs mission of developing nanotechnology tools to better understand cardiometabolic diseases, including atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. This position will work with animals.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Perform research work in medical and related technical areas involves use of lab skills. Assist lab members by performing standard molecular techniques (PCR, electrophoresis, RNA extraction), tissue processing (immunohistochemistry), tissue-culturing/cell culture work, and animal work (mouse handling, injections, euthanasia, breeding). (40%)
• Conduct analysis of samples. Operate a variety of instruments and scientific equipment to analyze samples, including microscopy, gel electrophoresis, PCR, and biochemical assays. (15%)
• Maintain records of experiments. Collect, verify, and record results for a particular experiment or closely related series of experiments. Organize, and compile data related to ongoing research using an electronic lab notebook. Keep raw data organized and update lab-related data folders to contribute to ongoing research results. (10%)
• Maintain test equipment utilized in experiments. Configure and operate laboratory instruments, ensuring equipment is kept in working order. Perform general laboratory maintenance tasks, including autoclaving, operating a dishwasher, and managing biowaste and chemical waste disposal according to Case Western Reserve University regulations and policies. (15%)
• Order laboratory supplies. Track and order reagents and other laboratory supplies. Maintain chemical and biological inventory in full compliance with Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) requirements. (15%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Perform other duties as assigned. Train other lab personnel within own area of expertise and support general laboratory operations as needed. (5%)

CONTACTS

Department: Daily contact with supervisor and lab members to discuss research, receive direction, and maintain lab workflow.

University: Occasional contact with other university departments and Environmental Health and Safety staff to share information and comply with safety regulations.

External: Frequent contact with vendors to exchange information and order supplies/reagents.

Students: Daily contact with student employees to exchange information and provide technical training within area of expertise.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

This position has no direct supervision of staff employees.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Experience: Bachelors degree in science and 0 to 1 year of experience or Associates degree in an approved biotechnology program and 0 to 2 years of experience required.

REQUIRED SKILLS

• Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within molecular biology and lab research.
• Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.
• Ability to operate and configure laboratory equipment (microscopy, PCR, gel electrophoresis units).
• Computer skills and ability to quickly learn software, databases, and online applications (Google Suite including Sheets and Docs).
• Strong organizational skills with keen attention to detail for managing electronic lab notebooks and raw data files
• 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.
• Willingness to learn and work with Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools and technologies.
• Ability to meet consistent attendance.
• Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors and customers face to face.
• 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.
• Must demonstrate compassion for animals within Case Western Reserve University facilities and dedication to the Animal Resource Centers mission. Must handle animals with care and respect at all times.
• Must be able and willing to learn new techniques, procedures, processes, and computer gear to protect the health of the animals.
• Previous experience working with animals preferred.

WORKING CONDITIONS

General laboratory environment located on the 4th floor of the Wolstein Research Building. Position involves working with mouse models, biological specimens, and hazardous materials requiring strict compliance with Case Western Reserve University regulations, chemical/biowaste disposal procedures, and Environmental Health and Safety guidelines. Personal protective equipment, including lab coat, gloves and goggles, will be provided to limit exposure to hazards.

Case Western Reserve Universitys 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 School of Medicine 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

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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