Research Assistant 2

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 $19.41 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 general supervision, the Research Assistant 2 will plan and carry out the laboratorys research program by conducting molecular, biochemical, and cell biology experiments. This position will contribute to studies of the molecular mechanisms underlying innate immune protein function, including the use of chimeric proteins to identify key determinants of antimicrobial activity through biochemical, biophysical, structural, and cell biology approaches. Primary responsibilities include performing laboratory experiments, analyzing and documenting research data, maintaining laboratory operations and equipment, and assisting with manuscript and grant preparation. This position supports the laboratorys research mission by generating high-quality experimental data and ensuring the efficient operation of ongoing research projects.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Plan and carry out experiments according to specific instructions. Perform cell culture, protein expression and purification, quantitative analysis of confocal images on protein-bacteria interactions, molecular cloning, stable cell line making, SDS-PAGE, western blotting, and other related assays. (50%)
• Conduct a series of research experiments to supply scientific information as part of a larger project, in collaboration with lab staff, and assist the principal investigator. May conduct specific experiments and tasks independently. Troubleshoot protocols, provide interpretation of data and may assist in developing improved techniques, projection methods or procedures. (20%)
• Collect and analyze data to contribute to collaborative projects. Maintain detailed laboratory records, prepare publication-quality figures, summarize findings, and assist with manuscript and grant preparation. (10%)
• Maintain laboratory equipment, organize reagents and biological samples. Manage laboratory inventory and coordinate ordering of research supplies. (6%)
• Train undergraduate students and new laboratory staff in standard laboratory operations, maintenance, techniques, and safety procedures; direct the work of students. (10%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Perform other duties as assigned. (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. May assist in training new staff and students on lab operations and maintenance.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Experience: Bachelors degree and 1 to 3 years of experience or Associates degree in an approved biotechnology program and 2 to 4 years of experience required.

REQUIRED SKILLS

• Knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures in life sciences. Experience with bacterial and mammalian cell culture, protein expression and purification, molecular cloning, and Western blotting.
• Background in biophysics, biochemistry, cell biology and structural biology, any of above 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.
• Willingness to learn and work with Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools and technologies.
• Ability to meet consistent attendance.
• Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors and customers face to face.

WORKING CONDITIONS

General laboratory environment. May involve handling chemicals, recombinant DNA, cell cultures, and laboratory instrumentation in accordance with institutional safety regulations. 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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