Research Assistant 1

POSITION OBJECTIVE
Working under moderate supervision, the Research Assistant 1 will perform research work and support scientists by performing standard molecular and biochemical techniques (PCR, electrophoresis, molecular cloning), tissue-culturing /cell culture work, and general lab maintenance. The research assistant will also collect, verify, record, and compile data and information related to the ongoing research carried out in the lab.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
1. Perform research work in medical and related technical areas involves use of lab skills. Perform research work using standard techniques of molecular biology/biochemistry and cell culture (PCR, molecular cloning, protein analysis such as SDS-PAGE and Western blot, retroviral/ lentiviral construct). (50%)
2. Conduct analysis of samples. Generate, maintain, and analyze tissue culture cell lines for experimental purposes. (10%)
3. Record results for a particular experiment or closely related series of experiments. Collect and record results from molecular biology and cell culture experiments and provide data to laboratory members. (10%)
4. Maintain records of experiments. Maintain clear and organized notebooks documenting procedures used molecular biology and cell culture experiments. (10%)
5. Order laboratory supplies. Order reagents and other laboratory supplies. Maintain chemical/biological inventory in compliance with Environmental Health and Safety. (10%)
6. Maintain test equipment utilized in experiments. Perform routine lab maintenance including cleaning equipment and lab ware; dispose of biohazardous waste. (10%)
NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Perform other duties as assigned.
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: Contact with student employees to exchange information.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY
This position has no direct supervision of staff employees.
QUALIFICATIONS
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 within molecular biology skills, such as PCR, Western blots, Retroviral/Lentiviral constructs.
2. Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.
3. Ability to operate laboratory equipment.
4. Ability to meet consistent attendance.
5. Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors and customers face to face.
6. Strong organization skills and good habit of maintaining a clean lab working environment; demonstrate attention to detail and accuracy, time management skills, and proven ability to successfully follow- through on assigned projects.
7. Professional and effective verbal and written communication skills and good interpersonal skills with the ability to work and communicate with various individuals within and external to the University.
8. Ability to work effectively independently and collaboratively within a team (must be highly motivated, responsible, dependable and a self-starter).
9. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and GraphPad Prism is preferred. Experience using Adobe Photoshop and FlowJo is a plus.
10. Must have the ability to maintain meticulous, complete, and easily retrievable laboratory data.
11. 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. May have exposure to hazards such as E. coli used in molecular cloning and protein expression, mammalian cell cultures, and regular laboratory chemicals. The employee will need to wear appropriate protective equipment such as gloves, lab coat, and eyewear. Working conditions will require working at the bench in a molecular biology and biochemistry laboratory.

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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