Description
POSITION OBJECTIVE
Working under moderate supervision, the Research Assistant 1 will perform research to support and conduct mitochondrial-related mechanisms in neurodegeneration. The research assistant will use in vitro and in vivo disease models, pharmaceutical development, and research while also assisting in organizing and participating in lab meetings. In addition, the research assistant will work on data analysis using R and Python programmers and public/lab datasets. Therefore, the R and Python skills are also required. This position will work with animals (mice).
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Perform research work in medical and related technical areas that involves use of lab skills in the field of neurodegenerative diseases using cellular and molecular biology techniques, such as microbial cultures, mammalian cell cultures, plasmid preparations, DNA analysis, DNA transfections in mammalian cells, PCR and Real-time PCR, Western blotting, immunocytochemistry, confocal microscopy, and quantification and presentation of test results. (35%)
Conduct analysis of samples, such as cell culture of established and primary cell lines, DNA/RNA extraction, immunoblot, PCR, immunocytochemistry/immunohistochemistry, transfection, maintain laboratory reagents including buffers and media, mice perfusion and tissue collection. The research assistant will also work on the data analysis using the public datasets from NIH and lab-generated sequencing data. (35%)
Record results for a particular experiment or closely related series of experiments. Maintain clear and organized notebooks documenting procedures used and cell growth data generated. (15%)
NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Maintain test equipment utilized in experiments and in the tissue culture facility, -800C and -200C freezers, and PCR facility. (5%)
Order laboratory supplies. Oversee chemical and biological reagent inventories, and prepare commonly used lab solutions (5%)
Perform routine checks on instruments to ensure instruments are in working order and communicate with the supervisor and laboratory staff effectively. (4%)
Perform other duties as assigned. (1%)
CONTACTS
Department: Frequent contact with lab members to collaborate on experiments.
University: Occasional contact with other departments to share information.
External: Limited or no contact with vendors to exchange information.
Students: Moderate 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 biology, chemistry, or related field and 0 to 1 year of experience or Associate's degree in an approved biotechnology program and 0 to 2 years of experience
REQUIRED SKILLS
Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field.
Skills in Data Analysis & Statistics. Python and R skills are required.
Skills in molecular biology and biochemical techniques, including PCR genotyping, mammal cell culture, and Western blotting.
Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.
Ability to operate laboratory equipment such as a centrifuge, light microscopes, balances, pH meter, incubators, etc.
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.
Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors and customers face to face.
Must demonstrate compliance with 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 university facilities and dedication to the Animal Resource Center's mission. Must handle animals with care and respect at all times.
Must be able and willing to learn new techniques, procedures, processes, and computer gear to protect the health of the animals.
Previous experience working with animals preferred.
Tissue culture skills.
Strong organizational skills and good habit of maintaining a clean lab working environment.
Must have the ability to willingly learn new techniques and procedures as needed, follow established protocols or laboratory procedures, and request clarification if necessary.
WORKING CONDITIONS
General laboratory environment. The lab is an open floor plan with abundant bench space. Ample desk space with computers are also provided. The lab is equipped with one fume hood for storage of hazardous and non-hazardous materials. The cell culture room is equipped with incubators, culture hood and microscope. May be required to use personal protective equipment, including standard lab coat, gloves and safety glasses when appropriate. The position may lift up to 24 lbs.
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 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.
Requirements
QUALIFICATIONS
Education/Experience: Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, or related field and 0 to 1 year of experience or Associate's degree in an approved biotechnology program and 0 to 2 years of experience
