Research Assistant 1

Case Western Reserve University, United States

Updated: about 1 month ago
Location: Campus, ILLINOIS
Job Type: FullTime

POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under moderate supervision, the Research Assistant I will assist in laboratory investigations and support the productive and smooth operation of a research laboratory. The research assistant will perform research work utilizing various molecular, cellular, animal, and biochemical approaches. The objectives of the research projects in this laboratory are to understand the biochemical basis underlying the mechanisms that regulate the cell cycle checkpoint and DNA damage response, and to understand the functional outcomes of these activities in health and disease. This position works with animals.

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Perform research work in medical and related technical areas involving the use of lab skills. Perform research work using methodologies including biochemical, molecular, animal, and cell biological studies to understand the mechanisms of cell cycle checkpoint and DNA damage response and their implications in tumorigenesis and potential anticancer therapy. (75%)
  • Conduct analysis of samples from, for instance, animal studies or large dataset analysis is expected, albeit at limited extent (10%)
  • Record results for the experiments and maintain records for the experiments, which includes but not limited to; qCPR data, animal growth, Western blot images, etc. This is part of research activities (7%)
  • Maintain test equipment like microcentrifuges, water bath, and Co2 incubators utilized in experiments. (7%)

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    NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Order laboratory supplies. (1%)
  • Perform other duties as assigned such as shared duties to prepare buffers, autoclave tissue culture wares, maintain small equipment, like microcentrifuges, water bath, Co2 incubator, etc. (<1%)

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    CONTACTS

    Department: Daily contact with the principal investigator or other senior personnel 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, guide students in the lab to do research.

     

    SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

    This position has no direct supervision of staff employees.

     

    QUALIFICATIONS

    Education/Experience: Bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, or related subject and 0 to 1 year of experience.

     

    REQUIRED SKILLS 

  • Has knowledge of commonly used biological concepts, practices, and procedures.
  • Good communication and organization skills.
  • Ability to manage time efficiently.
  • Relies on instructions and pre-established protocols to perform experiments.
  • Ability to operate laboratory equipment such as microcentrifuge, bench top centrifuge, CO2 incubator, freezers, bacteria culture incubator, balance, water bath, sonicator, etc.
  • Basic computer skills (graphics, presentations, data, and statistical analysis).
  • Ability to meet consistent attendance and flexibility to adjust schedule.
  • Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors and vendor representatives face to face.
  • Must demonstrate compliance with CWRU 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 CWRU facilities and dedication to the Animal Resource Center’s mission.  Must handle animals with care and respect at all times.
  • Previous experience working with animals preferred.
  • Must be able and willing to maintain a high standard of personal cleanliness and utilize protective gear to protect the health of the animals.

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    WORKING CONDITIONS

    The employee will likely be exposed to chemicals, UV light, and rodent animals (experimental mice). Case Western has sufficient protective gear to protect the employee. The employee must be able to reach above shoulder and lift up to 25 lbs. This position will also perform repetitive motion using a computer mouse and keyboard to type, as well as using pipettes, etc.

    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 medical school 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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