POSITION OBJECTIVE
The Cominelli Lab focuses on research targeting Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD). The Research Associate will execute research projects with the aim of studying the effect of non-nutritive sweeteners in IBD as well as processing and analyzing HIV samples. Under the guidance of the PI, the Research Associate is expected to work independently, design and plan projects, oversee collaborations, supervise students, and carry out research activities of the above assigned projects through completion. The Research Associate will collect samples (stool, urine, blood, biopsy) and process these samples utilizing techniques such as centrifugation, extraction and storage, titration and weighing, Spectrophotometry. The Research Associate will run assays, analyze and present data. The Research Associate will keep the PI informed of progress of research projects and provide recommendations on experimental design. The Research Associate will also present data and findings at lab and scientific meetings, seminars, etc., prepare manuscripts, and contribute preliminary data for grant proposals.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Plan and execute clinical and translational studies designed by the principal investigator and may design experiments independently and in collaboration with the PI. Assist with and coordinate studies performed by other research team members, ensuring adequate resources, assisting with study design and analysis. Oversee progress of the research projects and provide regular progress reports to the PI; and provide input and recommendation to principal investigator regarding significant developments in research projects. Ensure the PI is informed about the results and ensure the PI's trial strategy is confirmed by the Research Associate. (50%)
Assist in accrual of patients and bank tissues as part of a larger project. Maintain accurate records of data and provide findings and recommendations to the PI based on analysis. (20%)
Present data and findings at laboratory meetings and scientific meetings, seminars, etc. Prepare manuscripts, and contribute preliminary data for grant proposals. (15%)
Independently author research projects. Assemble data and make publication-quality figures from analyzed data. With the highest level of integrity and responsible conduct of research, participate in writing manuscripts as a first author and co-author for discoveries from research performed in the lab, together with the PI and other lab members. (10%)
NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
CONTACTS
Department: Frequent contact with PI and lab members, may work with other faculty for collaboration of research projects, contact with administrative staff as needed
University: Regular/Occasional contact with other labs for collaboration, Regular/Occasional contact with the Animal Resource Center, Contact with other departments as needed
External: Supply vendors, other institutions, funding agencies, etc. as needed
Students: Undergraduate and graduate student employees working in the lab
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY
No direct supervisory responsibilities. Will train and provide oversight to lab staff and students.
REQUIRED SKILLS
Human sample handling for blood, stool, biopsy and urine samples
Clinical data abstraction and Redcap data entry
Good clinical practice and Informed consent procedures
Sample tracking and biobanking
Familiarity with instruments such as Centrifuges and ultracentrifuges, Spectrophotometer/NanoDrop, Plate readers
Excellent analytical skills; ability to formulate findings and recommendations from the analysis.
Excellent oral and written communication skills and interpersonal skills; must demonstrate the ability to effectively and professionally communicate and work with various individuals within and external to the University.
Strong organization skills; ability to multi-task, prioritize, and meet deadlines. Must demonstrate attention to detail and accuracy, time management skills, and follow-through. Must be able to work under pressure and conform to shifting priorities, demands, and timeline.
Effective leadership skills; ability to lead, train, work with, and elicit cooperation from team members and staff.
Ability to work effectively independently and collaboratively within a team. Must be highly motivated, responsible, dependable, and a self-starter.
Effective problem-solving skills; must demonstrate innovation and creativity, sound judgment, and good decision-making.
Good computer skills, including database management. Ability to learn new programs as needed.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Work may involve prolonged standing when conducting experiments or processing samples primarily in a research laboratory setting. There will be frequent handling of biological specimens including blood, plasma, stool, and tissue samples, requiring strict adherence to biosafety protocols, and use of specialized laboratory equipment and instruments. Work schedule may occasionally require flexible hours, weekend work, or extended hours to meet project deadlines or process time-sensitive samples. Working in the lab may include exposure to chemicals, reagents, disinfectants, and biohazardous materials, and working in cold rooms, freezers, or controlled-temperature environments may be required.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education/Experience: Master's degree and a minimum of 5 years of related experience required. Or PhD, MD, or other terminal degree and 0 or more years of experience required.
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 annual salary is $55,000-$56,000, 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.