Research Assistant 1

Salary Grade

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, depending on qualifications, experience, department budgets, and industry data.

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.

Job Description

POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under moderate supervision, the Research Assistant 1 will perform research in cancer biology and therapy resistance using in vitro and in vivo models. This position supports ongoing projects that investigate how oncogenic mutations, therapy-induced senescence, and tumor metabolism affect drug response in melanoma and breast cancer. The research assistant will work with human and murine cells and animal models, performing molecular and cellular biology assays and supporting data analysis. The research aims to identify novel therapeutic strategies, contributing to the programs mission to improve cancer treatment outcomes through translational research. This position may involve working with animals.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Perform research work in medical and related technical areas involving use of lab skills. Perform molecular and cellular biology techniques including PCR, DNA/RNA extraction, Western blotting, and cell culture. Carry out animal handling, drug treatment, tumor measurement, and tissue dissection in mouse models. Conduct lentiviral transduction, gene knockdown, and senescence induction assays. (35%)
• Conduct analysis of samples. Analyze tissue sections via immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. Perform flow cytometry, Seahorse XF metabolic analysis, and ELISA assays. Evaluate histological, molecular, and metabolic readouts from both in vitro and in vivo experiments. (20%)
• Record results for a particular experiment or closely related series of experiments. Accurately document experimental conditions, results, and observations in lab notebooks and digital records. Compile data for internal presentations and prepare summary figures using GraphPad Prism or Excel. (15%)
• Maintain records of experiments. Maintain well-organized, clearly labeled lab notebooks and digital files. Ensure reproducibility and traceability of experimental results and materials. (10%)
• Maintain test equipment utilized in experiments. Perform regular maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment including biosafety cabinets, centrifuges, and pipettes. Clean instruments after use and coordinate service schedules when needed. (10%)
• Order laboratory supplies. Monitor and order reagents, antibodies, consumables, and animal-related supplies. Maintain compliance with institutional chemical and biological safety inventory protocols. (6%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Perform other duties as assigned. Assist in training students and junior lab members. Participate in lab meetings and collaborative projects. (4%)

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: Bachelors degree and 0 to 1 year of experience or Associates 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 a particular field.
• Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.
• Ability to operate laboratory equipment.
• Ability to demonstrate 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.
• Willingness to learn and work with Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools and technologies.
• Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors and customers face to face.
• 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 Centers 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.

WORKING CONDITIONS

General laboratory environment. The employee will be exposed to chemicals, animal dander, and potentially infectious agents. Work involves handling live animals, including mice, and associated housing and care procedures. Personal protective equipment such as gloves, lab coats, and eye protection is required. Work may include occasional evenings or weekends depending on the experimental schedule. Case Western Reserve Universitys animal facilities are AAALAC-accredited and follow all federal and institutional animal welfare regulations.

Case Western Reserve Universitys 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 School of Medicine 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.

EEO Statement

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.

Reasonable Accommodations

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.

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