Research Assistant 2

Case Western Reserve University, United States

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

POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under general supervision, the Research Assistant 2 will plan and carry out research projects in accordance with general plans and towards characterizing the internal organization of virus particles. The objective of this research is the construction of fluorescent HIV-1 particles, using genetic code expansion (GCE) technology, for high-resolution fluorescence imaging. This position will investigate various fluorescent labeling protocols, produce fluorescently labeled viral particles, and characterize the produced viruses using quantitative biochemical and virologic approaches. Overall, the studies aim to enable high-resolution fluorescence imaging HIV-1 viruses in vitro as well as following infection. The imaging studies, using novel fluorescence microscopy approaches, will be performed in external collaborations. The biomedical research is in the areas of cell-molecular biology and virology.

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Plan and carry out projects in accordance with general plans. Construct expression plasmids and viral vectors using standard molecular cloning techniques, isolate plasmid DNA, produce viruses by transient transfection and characterize virus infectivity by routine flow cytometry. (20%)
  • Conduct a series of experiments to supply scientific information as part of a larger project. Produce minimally labeled viral particles using Genetic Code Expansion technology (GCE) and characterize their biochemical composition and virologic properties using quantitative western blotting and infectivity assays. May assist in developing improved techniques or procedures. Experiments will be performed under BL2 and BL2+ containment conditions. (55%)
  • Collect and analyze data. Maintain meticulous records of experiments and other activities. (10%)

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    NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Oversee inventory and order lab supplies, as instructed. (5%)
  • Train new staff; may direct the work of students. (5%)
  • Perform other duties relevant to lab maintenance as assigned. (5%)

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    CONTACTS

    Department: Daily contact with supervisor(s) and laboratory staff to maintain workflow.

    University: Infrequent contacts outside the department as needed to meet research objectives.

    External: Occasional contact with vendors and in regard to instrument repair and service.

    Students: Frequent contact with student employees to exchange information.

     

    SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

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

     

    QUALIFICATIONS

    Education/Experience: Bachelor of science degree and 1 to 3 years of experience or Associate’s degree in an approved biotechnology program and 2 to 4 years of experience required.

     

    REQUIRED SKILLS

  • Knowledge and understanding of commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures within the molecular-genetics and virology fields.
  • Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.
  • Must possess the following basic technical skills: sterile technique; reagent preparation, cell culture, DNA transfection, preparation of plasmid DNA, molecular cloning, immunoprecipitation, western blotting, PCR.
  • Must be highly motivated, conscientious, and willing to learn.
  • Professional and effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong organization skills; ability to multi-task, prioritize and meet deadlines. Must demonstrate attention to detail and accuracy, time management skills, and follow-through.  
  • Ability to work effectively under general supervision and collaboratively within a team.
  • Effective problem-solving skills; must demonstrate sound judgment and good decision-making.
  • Ability to learn to operate complex laboratory equipment including FPLC, flow cytometer, PCR machine.
  • Familiarity with standard laboratory safety policies and procedures.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
  • Must demonstrate willingness to learn new techniques, procedures, processes, and computer programs as needed. Ability to interact with colleagues and supervisors face to face.
  • Ability to meet consistent attendance.
  • Ability to interact with colleagues and supervisors face to face.

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    WORKING CONDITIONS

    Typical laboratory environment and experiments using retroviral vectors and viruses will be carried out under BSL2/ BSL2+ conditions. The employee has possible exposure to the usual hazards in the form of infectious agents, blood borne pathogens, general chemicals, paraformaldehyde, phenol, chloroform, methanol, ethidium bromide, ultraviolet light and sonication. Required personal protective equipment includes a standard lab coat, gloves and safety glasses when appropriate. The employee will need to be able to lift up to 20 lbs., bend/stoop, kneel, crouch, push, pull and reach above shoulders. The employee will use repetitive motion, including the use of a keyboard and computer mouse while performing job duties.

    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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