Research Assistant 1

Position Objective

Working under moderate supervision, the Research Assistant 1 will perform research work in medical and related technical areas in the Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences as part of the Institute for Glial Sciences at Case Western Reserve University. Research work will be done within groups of biologists developing novel approaches to answer key questions central to understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms that govern normal and pathologic cell states in neurological disorders.

Essential Functions

• Perform research work in medical and related technical areas involves use of lab skills. Process tissue for various histological assays. Perform immunohistochemistry and other assays on samples processed. (30%)
• Conduct analysis of samples. Conduct quantitative analysis of samples to measure specific biological markers. This includes using imaging and computational software. (30%)
• Record results for a particular experiment or closely related series of experiments. Present data and progress at weekly meetings. (10%)
• Maintain records of experiments with excellent organization and record keeping. Must maintain accurate and detailed experimental records. Record results and maintain experimental records in Lab Archives, a provided online electronic lab notebook. (10%)
• Maintain test equipment utilized in experiments to ensure cleanliness and full functionality. Report to senior lab personnel any equipment malfunction. (10%)
• Order laboratory supplies as necessary for completion of experiments, order depleted supplies using an in house ordering system and restock newly ordered supplies as they arrive. (6%)

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.

Qualifications

Education/Experience: Bachelor's degree in science and 0 to 1 year of experience or Associate's degree in an approved biotechnology program and 0 to 2 years of experience required.

Required Skills

• Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field.
• Experience with immunohistochemistry, imaging and sectioning.
• Experience with quantitative analysis and using software to support this.
• 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.
• Ability to meet consistent attendance.
• Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors and customers face to face.
• Professional and effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Willingness to learn and work with artificial intelligence (AI) tools and technologies.

Working Conditions

General laboratory environment. May have exposure to hazards. Laboratory safety and blood-borne pathogen training is required and will be provided. Required personal protective equipment includes a standard lab coat, gloves and safety glasses when appropriate.