Research Assistant 4

Case Western Reserve University, United States

Updated: 15 days ago
Location: Campus, ILLINOIS
Job Type: FullTime

POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working with a high degree of independence and under general direction, the Research Assistant 4 will coordinate major research activities to further develop novel therapeutic approaches to control inflammatory disorders while minimizing the risk of infections. The research activities also includes the study host-pathogen interaction with the goal of developing new and improved treatment strategies against major infectious organisms that do not rely on administration of antibiotics (host-directed therapy). This position will work with animals.

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Coordinate major activities of lab/research staff, this includes coordination of in vitro and in vivo experiments to examine the effects of genetic or pharmacologic inhibition of CD40-TRAF signaling for the control of inflammatory responses, studies of the regulation of molecular mechanisms involved in control of Toxoplasma gondii as well as breeding of mouse colonies. This requires the ability to work well as a member of a team. (10%)
  • Perform high level and complex analysis and data calculation, interpret data and provide input and recommendations to the principal investigator regarding significant developments in  research projects. (10%)
  • Perform the most complex quantitative analytical procedures; these include but are not limited to luciferase and flow cytometry-based screening of anti-inflammatory agents, multicolor flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, ELISA, real time PCR, transfections and immunoblots. Studies in animals include breeding of transgenic mice, isolation and culture of primary mouse cells, intraperitoneal/intravenous injections and organ collection. Utilize new and innovative research techniques to devise new protocols and techniques for research projects involving a high degree of skill and training. These may include protocols for isolation of primary mouse cells and detection of intracellular proteins by flow cytometry. (45%)
  • Assist in developing procedures, coordinate information with others as needed. Develop and maintain research project methods, techniques, procedures, and regulatory documents. Provide expert advice and/or consult with principal investigator on experimental planning and data evaluation. (10%)
  • Teach or instruct others in research techniques relevant to research projects. (7%)
  • Participate in manuscript and grant writing, co-author manuscripts on research projects that include the study of the role of CD40 signaling in diabetic retinopathy and other inflammatory disorders, identification of novel approaches to control inflammatory disorders and molecular events during the interaction between the host and Toxoplasma gondii . (7%)
  • Supervise research assistants and technicians, including undergraduate students, ensure that all guidelines are followed. (7%)

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    NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

    Perform other duties as assigned. (4%)

     

    CONTACTS

    Department: Daily contact with supervisor to discuss research and maintain workflow.

    University: Occasional contact with other departments to share information.

    External: Limited or no contact with vendors to exchange information.

    Students: Daily contact with student employees to train them and supervise them.

     

    SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

    May supervise research assistants and technicians.

     

    QUALIFICATIONS

    Experience: 5 to 8 years of related experience required.

    Education: Bachelor’s degree in science required.

     

    REQUIRED SKILLS

  • Expertise in tissue culture, flow cytometry, ELISA, PCR, immunoblot, breeding of mice and collection of mouse organs.
  • Professional and effective verbal and written communication skills. Strong interpersonal skills; ability to work and communicate with various individuals.
  • Strong organization skills; ability to multi-task, prioritize and meet deadlines. Must demonstrate attention to detail and accuracy, time management, and follow-through as well as a good habit of maintaining a clean lab working environment.
  • Ability to organize, maintain and prepare accurate records.
  • Effective problem-solving skills; sound judgment and good decision-making.
  • Ability to work effectively independently and collaboratively within a team (must be highly motivated, responsible, dependable and a self-starter).
  • Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors and customers face to face.
  • Ability to meet consistent attendance.
  • Must demonstrate compliance with Case Western Reserve University animal research and care (ARC) policies and procedures and compliance with 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 Center’s mission. Must handle animals with care and respect at all times.
  • Must be able and willing to learn new techniques, procedures, processes, and gear to protect animals.
  • Previous experience working with animals required.
  • Must demonstrate flexibility and ability to work under pressure; must be able and willing to conform to shifting priorities, demands and timeline.
  • Ability to work with sensitive information and maintain confidentiality.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Excel and GraphPad Prism, Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and FlowJo is preferred.
  • Must have the ability to maintain meticulous, complete, and easily retrievable laboratory data.

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    WORKING CONDITIONS

    General laboratory environment: The lab is an open floor plan with abundant bench space for animal handling and manipulations. Ample desk space with computers are also provided. The lab is equipped with two fume hoods for storage of hazardous and non-hazardous materials as well as several freezers. The cell culture room is equipped with 3 incubators, 2 culture hoods, and microscopes. Access to a multi-color Flow Cytometer, ELISA reader and real time PCR machine in a neighboring labs. The employee should expect frequent interactions with lab members from that lab and must be willing to collaborate. Major physical demands include transferring animals between the lab and the animal holding facility, maintaining the animal colonies, as well as weekly changes of mouse/rat cages. The employee will be exposed and use to routine laboratory chemicals and solvents, and paraformaldehyde for tissue processing. Personal protective equipment, including lab coat, gloves and goggles, will be provided to limit exposure to hazards.This position requires handling of animal and tissues from animals and humans following Biosafety Level II practices.

    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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