Research Assistant 2

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 $19.41 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 general supervision, the Research Assistant 2 will plan and carry out small molecule research projects in accordance with general research guidelines. This position supports the research of the Cardiac Therapeutics Laboratory at the Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. The research assistant will work closely with other lab members and focus on research involving molecular biology of cardiac muscle contraction and potential of small molecule impact on this cardiac system.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Conduct a series of experiments to supply scientific information as part of a larger project. Perform a wide array of cellular and molecular biology experiments using high throughput screening, cell-based assays, gel electrophoresis, western blots, and other in vitro techniques. Execute and optimize bioassays to assess the potency of hit compounds. Execute HTS campaigns and analyze large, complex datasets to identify and prioritize hit compounds. (40%)
• Assist in developing improved techniques, projection methods or procedures. Design, develop, and optimize biochemical and cell-based high throughput screen-compatible assays for small molecule screening. (35%)
• Collect, analyze, interpret, and clearly document experimental data, observations, and conclusions. (10%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Oversee inventory. Maintain equipment, prepare buffer/media/reagents, and dispose of biohazardous waste. (5%)
• Maintain lab records. (5%)
• Perform other duties assigned. (5%)

CONTACTS

Department: Weekly contact with principal investigator and lab members to discuss research, maintain workflow, goals, lab operation/management issues, ordering, and reimbursement etc.

Frequent contact with laboratory members in collaboration in common research project.

University: Occasional contact with other departments to share information.

External: Infrequent communication with research collaborators from other institutions.

Students: Occasional contact with students who shadow/observe the research.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

This position has no direct supervision of staff employees. Train new staff; direct the work of students.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Experience: Bachelors degree and 1 to 3 years of related experience or Associates degree in an approved biotechnology program and 2 to 4 years of experience required.

REQUIRED SKILLS

• Knowledge of commonly used concepts, practices and procedures in chemistry, physics, biochemistry and molecular/cellular biology and in vivo cardiovascular function.
• Experience in cell-based and/or biochemical assays.
• Proficiency in basic molecular biology, cell biology and biochemistry methods.
• Ability to perform delicate manual tasks requiring fine motor skills while working with samples.
• Ability to follow instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job with minimal supervision.
• Ability to coordinate multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and maintain data integrity.
• Ability to effectively operate basic molecular and cellular biology laboratory equipment.
• Ability to work effectively, both independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Ability to learn and apply new techniques, ideas, processes, policies, functions, etc. Must be highly motivated and a self-starter.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; good interpersonal skills with the ability to interact with colleagues and supervisors face to face.
• Ability to meet consistent attendance.
• 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.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Working conditions will be standard laboratory environment with associated hazards, such as chemical and biohazards. Employee can expect to be working on a bench with molecular reagents and/or cardiac tissues, working with animal models/and bacterial cells in the laboratory, working in front of a computer for several hours, working outside standard working days or hours as required. The employee will work with frequent interruptions and distractions. The employee will need to take Chemical Safety Training and Biohazard Material Training. Other training may be required. Required personal protective equipment may include a standard lab coat, gloves and safety glasses when appropriate.

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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