Research Assistant 3

Case Western Reserve University, United States

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

POSITION OBJECTIVE

The lab uses patient samples and small animal models to investigate the inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects of major trauma. Working under limited supervision, the Research Assistant 3 will be responsible for coordinating research activities related to the daily functioning of the lab including the processing and organization of human blood samples and data, design and performance of experiments, training and supervising students and research residents, and maintenance of laboratory trainings, certifications, and regulatory needs. The research assistant will work very closely with collaborating labs, particularly in the performance of whole blood processing, flow cytometry, and RNA isolation. Experience with basic cell and molecular biology techniques is essential. This position will work with animals.

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 

  • Work closely with the principal investigator to coordinate research work centered around investigating the inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects of major trauma. Develop and maintain a system for the processing, organization, and secure storage of human blood samples and data including working with Case Western Reserve University computational biology to optimize and maintain a LabMatrix database. (25%)
  • Devise new protocols and improved techniques, projection methods or procedures involving a high degree of skill and training related to whole blood processing, flow cytometry, RNA isolation, and molecular biology techniques. This may include adapting existing protocols from collaborating groups and developing new protocols and procedures for the analysis of human blood samples. Evaluate adequacy of techniques, study and test new procedures and analyze gene expression and flow cytometry data. (25%)
  • Carry out complex research assignments of a non-routine nature with collaborators across the institution as part of a broader research plan, including ELISAs, ELISPOT, Flow cytometry, and rheologic assays. Work with the university’s core groups to pursue experiments outside of the lab’s expertise (e.g. proteomics, extracellular vesicle isolation and analysis, electron microscopy). May assist with some animal experiments. (20%)
  • Monitor laboratory inventory and budget; maintain laboratory trainings and certifications. (15%)
  • May supervise students and technicians, including training students to process blood samples, and to run ELISAs and flow cytometry. May train and supervise students and technicians from collaborating labs in performing flow cytometry. (10%)
  • May co-author research projects; including description of advanced methods, data analysis, and production of high-quality tables and figures. (5%)

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    NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

    Perform other duties as assigned. (<1%)

     

    CONTACTS 

    Department: Daily contact with supervisor, collaborators, and other lab members to discuss research and maintain workflow.

    University: Weekly contact with other departments (UH Anesthesia, UH Emergency Medicine) to collaborate on projects.

    External: Weekly contact with collaborating groups (UC Davis, University Hospital Rennes)

    Students: Several times a week contact with students to explain procedures.

     

    SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

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

     

    QUALIFICATIONS

    Experience: 3 to 5 years of related experience required.

    Education/Licensing: Bachelor’s degree in science.

     

    REQUIRED SKILLS

  • Must be able and willing to learn new techniques, procedures, processes.
  • Must be able and willing to work collaboratively with other members of the lab and with collaborating labs both to seek new expertise, and to support other labs with your expertise when needed.
  • Experience with whole blood processing, flow cytometry, ELISA and ELISPOT and ability to operate the relevant equipment is essential.
  • Strong organization skills and a good habit of maintaining a clean lab working environment; demonstrate attention to details and accuracy, time management skills, and a proven ability to successfully follow through on assigned projects.
  • Must demonstrate compliance with Case Western Reserve University 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 the university 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 learn new techniques, procedures, processes, and computer gear to protect the health of the animals.
  • Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors and customers face to face.
  • Ability to meet consistent attendance.
  • Ability to work with sensitive information and maintain confidentiality.
  • Willingness to work with small animal models.

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    WORKING CONDITIONS

    General laboratory environment: The lab is a large open floor plan in the Wolstein Research Building. The research assistant will have a dedicated workstation in the lab and dedicated bench space. The position includes frequent handling of human samples, with associated exposure to blood borne pathogens. Personal protective equipment including lab coat, gloves, and goggles will be provided to limit exposure to hazards.

    Case'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 SOM 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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