Research Assistant 3

Case Western Reserve University, United States

Updated: 3 months ago
Location: Campus, ILLINOIS
Job Type: FullTime

POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under limited supervision, coordinate research work in biomedical engineering. Responsible for collecting data related to speeding the development of therapeutic devices that control electrical activity in nerves to improve chronic medical conditions. The NIH contract—specifically to Reconstruct Vagal Anatomy (REVA)—will allow researchers to map the body’s vagus nerve using the latest high-resolution imaging technology. The team’s goal will be to show how nerve tracts in the vagus map to organs. The vagus nerves connect the brainstem to most organs in the torso, including the heart, lungs, pancreas, stomach and intestines, to control and sense the body’s inner workings. Electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve has been used to treat epilepsy, rheumatoid arthritis and heart failure, among many other conditions.

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Coordinate laboratory/ research activities. Embedding, sectioning, and staining tissues in the histology lab. (20%)
  • Work closely with the principal investigator. Compile analyses and data for monthly and quarterly reports to meet critical grant deadlines. (15%)  
  • Carry out complex research assignments of a non-routine nature. Develop novel embedding and staining techniques to enhance microCT imaging contrast in neural tissues. (10%)  
  • Devise new protocols and techniques for research projects involving a high degree of skill and training. Examples include developing procedures for operating custom-fabricated laboratory equipment that automates tissue sectioning and/or imaging. (10%)  
  • Evaluate adequacy of techniques; study and test new procedures and analyzes data. Develop and perform quality control studies and including control slides for rigorous antibody-based staining methods. (10%)
  • Supervise students and technicians. Supervise undergraduate and graduate students and junior staff to learn histology techniques. (10%)
  • May co-author research projects. Prepare figures for conference and journal publications. (10%)
  • Monitor the laboratory budget. Review budget spreadsheets and determine a spending plan for budgeted supplies. (10%)

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    NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

    Perform other duties as assigned. (5%)

     

    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

    May supervise students and technicians

     

    QUALIFICATIONS

    Experience: 3 to 5 years of related experience required.

    Education: Bachelor of Science degree or equivalent required.

     

    REQUIRED SKILLS 

  • Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within biomedical engineering.
  • Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.
  • Ability to operate laboratory equipment.
  • Ability to meet consistent attendance.
  • Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors and customers face to face.
  • Must be able and willing to learn new techniques, procedures, processes, and computer gear to protect the health of the animals.

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    WORKING CONDITIONS

    General laboratory environment. May have exposure to hazardous chemicals such as formaldehyde, xylene, acetone, and similar chemicals used for tissue fixation and dehydration.

     

    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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