Research Assistant 1

Case Western Reserve University is committed to providing a transparent estimate of the salary for this position at the time of its posting. The starting wage rate is $17.65 per hour.

Employees receive more than just a paycheck. University employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare, retirement plans, tuition assistance, paid time off, and a winter recess.

POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under moderate supervision, the Research Assistant 1 will perform biomedical research work in pathology and immunology-related areas, focused on understanding the regulation of intestinal epithelial cell development and function. The Research Assistant will perform sterile cell culture (from both mouse and human tissues) and standard cell biology assays. In addition, the Research Assistant will collect, verify, record, and compile data and information related to the ongoing research in the lab. The Research Assistant will also contribute to general upkeep of the laboratory, including maintaining experimental supplies/equipment. This position will work with animals.

Essential Functions

• Perform research work in medical and related technical areas involves use of lab skills. Isolate primary epithelial cells from intestinal tissues of mice and perform standard cell biology assays including short-term treatment studies, flow cytometry, and RNA/protein extraction. Conduct analysis of samples. Maintain these cells in sterile tissue culture for short-term assays testing the role of estrogen signaling. Record results for this experiment or closely related series of experiments. (50%).
• Maintain experimental animal colonies, including breeding, weaning, and genotyping of transgenic mouse lines. (15%)
• Maintain test equipment utilized in experiments, including cleaning equipment and lab-ware, maintaining current inventory of supplies, and disposing of waste. (15%)
• Maintain records of experiments. Keep clear and organized notebooks to document all procedures used and results obtained. (10%)
  
  
  

Nonessential Functions

• Order laboratory supplies. (5%)
• 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

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 the field of biomedicine.
• Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.
• Ability to operate laboratory equipment such as centrifuge, light microscopes, balances, pH meter, incubators, etc.
• Strong organizational skills. Must demonstrate effective time management, attention to detail, and ability to meet deadlines.
• 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.
• Compliance with university animal research and care (ARC) policies and procedures, including compliance with all regulatory guidelines governing the use of animals. Must handle animals with care and respect at all times.
• Ability to meet consistent attendance.
• Ability to interact with colleagues and supervisors face to face.
  
  
  

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

Case Western Reserve University is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are protected under federal and state laws and university policy from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin, protected veteran status, disability, age and genetic information.

Case Western Reserve University complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act regarding reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact the CWRU Office of Equity at 216-368-3066 to request a reasonable accommodation. Determinations as to granting reasonable accommodations for any applicants will be made on a case-by-case basis.