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 supports cryogenic electron tomography (cryo-ET) research in the laboratory at the Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine. The research assistant is primarily responsible for cryogenic focused ion beam (cryo-FIB) milling of cellular samples to prepare lamella for cryo-ET data collection. This position contributes to multiple projects in the lab that are funded by NIH grants.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Operate cryo-focused ion beam/scanning electron microscopy (cryo-FIB/SEM) instrumentation, including Thermo Fisher Aquilos systems, to perform CLEM workflows, cryogenic imaging, target identification, lamella preparation, and related workflows for structural biology research projects. (50%)
• Operate cryo-electron microscopy instrumentation, including Thermo Fisher Glacios and Titan Krios microscopes, to assess grid and lamella quality. Record experimental parameters, maintain imaging records, organize microscopy datasets to support reproducibility and research objectives. (20%)
• Cryogenic sample preparation and cryo-EM Support: Prepare biological specimens for cryo-electron microscopy workflows, including grid preparation, glow discharge, sample vitrification, cryogenic handling, and quality assessment. Assist with preparation and transfer of samples for downstream cryo-FIB and cryo-ET experiments. (15%)
• Coordinate and maintain general laboratory supplies and inventory, including placing orders, receiving shipments, and other laboratory materials needed to support research operations. (10%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Participate in laboratory meetings, assist with training of new laboratory personnel on established protocols, and perform other duties as assigned. (5%)
• Perform other duties as assigned. (<1%)

  CONTACTS

  Department: Daily contact with principal investigator and lab members to discuss research, maintain workflow, for lab operation/management issues, ordering, and reimbursement etc.

  University: None

  External: Infrequent contact with vendors to exchange information and place orders.

  Students: Occasional contact with students who shadow/observe the research.

  SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

  This position has no direct supervision of staff employees.

  QUALIFICATIONS

  Education/Experience: Bachelors degree in science 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

  • Basic knowledge of biological systems and biomedicine research.
  • Ability to perform delicate manual tasks requiring fine motor skills while working with cryogenic materials and microscopy samples.
  • Demonstrated organizational skills with the ability to coordinate multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and maintain laboratory operations.
  • Ability to smoothly communicate with colleagues, supervisors and students.
  • Any experience with electron microscopy will be preferably considered.
  • Ability to meet consistent attendance.
  • Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors, and customers face to face.
  • 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.
  • Willingness to learn and work with Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools and technologies.

  WORKING CONDITIONS

  General laboratory environment. May have exposure to cryogenic hazards and biohazards. Personal protective equipment, including lab coat, gloves and goggles, will be provided to limit exposure to hazards.

  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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