Research Assistant 1

Case Western Reserve University, United States

Updated: 23 days ago
Location: Campus, ILLINOIS
Job Type: FullTime

POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under moderate supervision, the Research Assistant will perform research work for the National Prion Disease Surveillance lab dedicated to diagnostic and research work on prion diseases. The research assistant will assist with ongoing specimen accessioning, tissue bank management, laboratory inventory management and quality control.

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Perform research work in medical and related technical areas involving the use of lab skills. Conduct analysis of samples including genetic DNA extraction, CSF, histology and Western Blot testing. Handle prion-infected specimens and evaluate them for testing viability in a timely manner. (30%)
  • Record results for a particular experiment or closely related series of experiments. Document all correspondence and input information in database.  Handle specimen verification calls to the sender or referring physician to verify how the sample was treated and any other knowledge deemed necessary. (20%)
  • Maintain records of experiments. Collect and analyze clinical data (test requisitions) and record keeping support with high level data entry and by implementing quality data controls. Specimen processing of all clinical lab specimens and accession autopsy tissue when received at the NPDPSC. Prepare clinical reports and update patient clinical history. (20%)
  • Maintain test equipment utilized in experiments. Locate samples by freezer location, communicate and provide samples to appropriate lab personnel for processing. Evaluate and manage freezer locations and tissue bank space needs. Reorganize all specimens as necessary to better suit and facilitate the department’s work. (20%)
  • Order and manage laboratory supplies including inventory and submitting orders as requested. Organize, label and transfer repository of archived fixed brain tissue from large containers to smaller containers for long-term storage purposes. (10%)

    •  

    NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

    Perform other duties as assigned. (<1%)

     

    CONTACTS

    Department: Frequent contact with the manager of the center and other members of the research and diagnostic groups, support personnel, faculty, and postdoctoral fellows to discuss information regarding samples and logistics for the Prion Center.

    University: Occasional contact with faculty and staff in the School of Medicine, University Hospital Department of Medicine and numerous support and service departments in University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve University to arrange for handling of samples and changes in protocol.

    External: Limited contact with suppliers of laboratory products and supplies.

    Students: Contact with student employees.

     

    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 

  • Knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within the field of chemistry and biology.
  • Ability to perform DNA extraction, Western Blotting, and ELISA, along with tissue transfers under a BSL2 hood.
  • Relies on instructions and pre-established SOP guidelines to perform the functions of the job.
  • Oral and written communication skills and interpersonal skills; must demonstrate the ability to effectively and professionally communicate and work with various individuals within and external to the University.
  • Organization skills; ability to work on multiple projects, prioritize, and meet deadlines. Must demonstrate attention to detail and accuracy, time management skills, and follow-through. Must be able to conform to shifting priorities, demands, and timeline.
  • Effective analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Good computer skills, including database management. Ability to learn new programs as needed.
  • Ability to meet consistent attendance.
  • Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors and customers face to face.
  •  Ability to operate laboratory histopathology equipment, tissue processor, tissue embedding, and microscopes.

    •  

    WORKING CONDITIONS

    Standard laboratory conditions with some hazardous chemicals. Special hazards include biohazardous (potentially infectious) human brain and cerebrospinal fluid and other bloodborne pathogens and chemicals. The following personal protective equipment required: appropriate gloves, protective eyewear, laboratory coat, and safety shoes.

    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.

    .

    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.

    .

    Similar Positions