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 will perform experiments in a neuroscience lab studying neural circuit development, function, and associated behaviors. The position requires knowledge of a variety of approaches, including routine molecular biology, immunofluorescence, confocal microscopy, behavioral assays, and the use of various software for data analysis. This position will work with vertebrate animals.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Perform research work in biomedical and related technical areas using laboratory and research skills, including vertebrate animal behavior, dissection, tissue sectioning, immunostaining, and microscopy imaging. (40%)
• Using behavioral and image software, perform data analysis on the data collected from experiments, including statistical analysis, simulation, and plotting the results. (15%)
• Collect and record results for a particular experiment or closely related series of experiments. Collect raw data from behavioral assays, confocal imaging, immunofluorescence, and related molecular and image analysis workflows and update lab-related data folders. Provide the data to lab members. (10%)
• Update laboratory data folders and maintain clear and organized records of experiment procedures and results in notebooks and lab-related data folders. (10%)
• Maintain knowledge of common lab equipment, safety protocols, chemical hygiene protocols, hazardous waste management protocols, and animal protocols. Configure and operate laboratory instruments; ensure instruments are kept in working order. Perform routine lab maintenance, including cleaning equipment and labware; dispose of biohazardous waste. (10%)
• Order and maintain laboratory supplies, including, but not limited to, animal and supply stocks, as needed (7%).

NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Presentation in regularly scheduled lab meetings. (4%)
• Maintain and test equipment utilized in experiments, including pipettes, test tubes, slides, etc. (3%)
• Perform other duties as assigned. (1%.)

CONTACTS

Department: Continuous contact with supervisors to discuss research and maintain workflow.

University: Occasional contact with other departments to share information.

External: Infrequent contact with vendors to exchange information.

Students: Occasional contact with graduate students to exchange information.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

This position has no direct supervision of staff employees but may help with supervision of undergraduate researchers.

QUALIFICAITONS

Education/Experience: Bachelors degree and 0-1 years of related experience or Associates degree in an approved biotechnology program and 0-2 years of experience required.

REQUIRED SKILLS

• Knowledge of commonly used concepts and procedures within basic sciences.
• Background and understanding of animal genetics required.
• Strong organizational skills, ability to multi-task, prioritize and meet deadlines. Must demonstrate attention to detail and accuracy, time management skills, and follow-through.
• Ability to work effectively independently and collaboratively within a team. Must be highly motivated, responsible, resourceful and dependable.
• Ability to follow instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills and interpersonal skills; must demonstrate the ability to effectively and professionally communicate and work with various individuals from a broad spectrum of disciplines, technical and educational backgrounds within the department, school and university. Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors, and customers face-to-face.
• Effective problem-solving skills must demonstrate excellent analytical skills, sound judgment, and good decision making.
• Must demonstrate compliance with Case Western Reserve University animal research and care 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 CWRU facilities and dedication to the Animal Resource Centers mission. Must handle animals with care and respect at all times.
• Previous experience working with animals preferred.
• Must demonstrate willingness to learn new techniques, procedures, processes and computer programs/gear as needed and to protect the health of the animals.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and database management.
• Familiarity and ability to use various laboratory equipment (centrifuge, biomedical hood, electrophysiology rig).
• 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.
• Willingness to learn and utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI).

WORKING CONDITIONS

Will work in our general laboratory environment and within an animal facility. Work entails experiments that may involve hazardous reagents. The use and disposal of chemicals and hazardous reagents must be handled carefully with strict attention to protective clothing, gloves and eye protection. Personal protective equipment, including lab coats, gloves and goggles, will be provided to limit exposure to hazards.

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 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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