POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under moderate supervision, the Research Assistant 1 will perform research work in the lab and assist the principal investigator with administrative duties and lab management. The research projects in the lab mainly focus on molecular mechanisms of chronic inflammation in obesity, aging, and liver diseases, and identification of new molecular therapeutics to suppress such chronic inflammation. This position will work with animals.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Work closely with senior PhD students to perform research work in the biomedical area using mouse models and primary or cancer cell culture. (20%)
2. Conduct analysis of mouse or cell culture samples using biochemical and molecular assays such as western blot, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), extracellular vesicle isolation, gene cloning and transfection. (20%) 
3. Record and maintain results of each experiment electronically including detailed experimental protocols, analysis results, and conclusions for review by principal investigator and senior PhD students. (10%)
4. Assist the principal investigator with administrative duties and lab management, such as organizing the standard protocols for routinely used assays in the lab, preparing documents or filling out forms for the lab (such as safety manual), preparing reimbursements, reaching out to collaborators. (30%)
5. Maintain equipment utilized in experiments, such as ultracentrifugation, microscopy, q-PCR machine, and imaging system. (9%)

6. Order and keep tracking the laboratory supplies and/or lab equipment. (6%)

    

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Perform other duties as assigned, such as reaching out to manufacturers for technical support. Facilitate annual maintenance of ultracentrifugation. (5%)

CONTACTS 

Department: Daily contact with supervisor and senior PhD students in the lab to discuss research, lab management, and maintain workflow.

University: Occasional contact with other departments to share information.

External: Limited contact with vendors, when technical support or equipment repair are needed. Limited contact with external collaborators from other universities to arrange samples. 

Students: Frequent contact with student employees to exchange information.

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 

Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within biomedical field. 

Experience in use of computers and software including MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.

Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. 

Ability to operate laboratory equipment.

Previous experience working with animals preferred.

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 Case Western Reserve University facilities and dedication to the Animal Resource Center's mission. Must handle animals with care and respect at all times. 

Demonstrated history of successful support, education, and advocacy for all students, aligned with the values, mission, and messaging of the university, while adhering to the staff policy on conflict of commitment and interest. 

Ability to meet consistent attendance.

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