Research Associate II

Date: July 20, 2026

Title: Research Associate II (Laboratory Research)

Department: Pharmacology

School: Medicine

Location: Wood 303

Supervisor Name and Title: Phoebe L. Stewart, Ph.D., Professor

POSITION OBJECTIVE

The objective of the research is to analyze the structural basis of neutralizing antibody (NAb) escape by adenovirus vectors using cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM). The RAII will prepare cryo-EM grids from samples provided by collaborators, collect cryo-EM single particle data and cryo-tomography data, process and analyze the data. The RAII is expected to work largely independently with minimal guidance from the Principal Investigator. The RAII will be central to cryo-EM structural biology studies designed to analyze the mechanism of NAb mediated adenovirus inactivation and the structural basis of NAb escape by adenovirus vectors. The RAII will be evaluated at the end of appointment period by their ability to produce publication-quality cryo-EM data, analyze the data, and contribute to the writing of scientific manuscripts.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Plan and execute experiments for research projects designed by the principal investigator and may design experiments independently and in collaboration with the PI. Coordinate research projects with internal and external partners. (23%)

2. Working under limited supervision, 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 of lab members and ensure the PI's experimental strategy is explored by lab members and through independent experiments by the Research Associate. Manage some day-to-day priorities of the research staff as directed by the principal investigator. Provide input on goals and objectives for the efficient and timely completion of projects. (20%)

3. Oversee and conduct experiments to supply scientific information as part of a larger project. Studies involve but are not limited to cryo-EM/cryo-ET data collection and image processing to visualize IgG, IgM, single-chain antibodies, and complement molecules on adenovirus variants prepared by collaborators. Maintain accurate records of data and provide findings and recommendations to the PI based on analysis. (10%)

4. Operate CWRU cryo-electron microscopy core equipment including a Vitrobot robotic plunger in a BSL2 cabinet, glow discharge unit, and Glacios and Titan Krios cryo-electron microscopes. (10%)

5. 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%)

6. Assist the PI in and independently develop highly complex new techniques and protocols. Train lab members on new techniques. Evaluate adequacy of techniques; study and test new procedures and analyses. (5%)

7. Supervise the research and technical work performed by other lab members, ensuring proper lab procedures are followed, and their safety, and ensuring adequate resources are provided for lab work. Manage staff goals and objectives for the efficient and timely completion of projects. Provide coaching and assess and address training needs for laboratory staff. (5%)

8. Present data and findings at laboratory meetings and scientific meetings, seminars, etc. Prepare manuscripts, and contribute preliminary data for grant proposals. (5%)

9. Assess, update and develop new standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the lab. (5%)

10. Assist other lab members with general lab maintenance and help oversee and maintain inventory of scientific reagents. (5%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Perform other duties as assigned. (2%)

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: Occasional contact with other labs for collaboration, 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

The RAII will be responsible for training and providing oversight to other lab staff and students.

QUALIFICATIONS

Experience: 3 or more years of relevant experience, requiring technical, research and managerial skills at a level meeting or exceeding the requirements of a Research Assistant 2 in cryo-electron microscopy (single particle and tomography methods) and structural biology.

Education/Licensing: PhD in relevant field (Biochemistry or Structural Biology or related fields).

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS and ABILITIES

1. Ability to prepare cryo-EM grids of BSL2 samples for high-resolution structural studies.

2. Ability to collect and process cryo-EM single particle and tomography data.

3. Excellent analytical skills; ability to formulate findings and recommendations from the analysis.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. Effective leadership skills; ability to lead, train, work with, and elicit cooperation from team members and staff.

7. Ability to work effectively independently and collaboratively within a team. Must be highly motivated, responsible, dependable, and a self-starter.

8. Effective problem-solving skills; must demonstrate innovation and creativity, sound judgment, and good decision-making.

9. Good computer skills, including database management. Ability to learn new programs as needed. Strong experience with cryo-EM image processing software including cryoSPARC, RELION, cisTEM, EMAN2, IMOD, PEET, NAMD, and VMD.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Working conditions include handling BSL2 samples and cryogens, including liquid nitrogen and liquid ethane. Occasional need to work overtime (early mornings, evenings, and weekends) as needed for time sensitive samples, cryo-electron microscope availability, and cryo-EM data collection.

Experience: 3 or more years of relevant experience, requiring technical, research and managerial skills at a level meeting or exceeding the requirements of a Research Assistant 2 in cryo-electron microscopy (single particle and tomography methods) and structural biology.

Education/Licensing: PhD in relevant field (Biochemistry or Structural Biology or related fields).

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 $62,000-$72,000, 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.