Job Title: Research Assistant 3
Location: Case Main Campus
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Full/Part Time: Full-Time
Job ID: 8723
Job Description POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under limited supervision, the Research Assistant 3 will coordinate research work in medical and related technical areas. The research work is to study newly uncovered mechanisms that control immune cell homeostasis in normal health and are dysregulated in disease, e.g. Lupus. Experiments with both specialized mice and human samples. The work is directed at both increased knowledge of immune system regulation and clinical translation. Immunologic studies are focused on Foxp3⁺ Treg induction and T effector responses but include B cell responses. The work is not only relevant to autoimmunity but also to disorders in which the immune system participates in disease pathogenesis e.g. atherosclerosis and complications of COVID-19. Interactive lab with students conducting interrelated projects. In addition to the immunologic studies, studies building on findings that the same processes are involved in growth factor mitotic and anti-apoptotic activities will be conducted. The growth factor studies are relevant to wound healing, angiogenesis, nerve regeneration, and cancer. Studies are conducted predominantly with mouse models. This position will work with animals.

Work directly with the principal investigator in designing experiments and analyzing data. Goal is to generate data for a coauthored paper and for grant applications. As examples Flow, qPCR, siRNA and mouse experiments (50%)Carry out complex research assignments of a non-routine nature including co-IPs, confocal analyses, BRET, protein purification, qPCR, and immunoblots. (10%) Devise new protocols and techniques for research projects involving a high degree of skill and training. preparation of samples for mass spec, expressing epitope tagged proteins and preparing transfectants. RNAseq, preparation of samples for mass spec, and murine bone marrow transplants. In addition to standard lab techniques above, siRNA, and multicolor flow cytometry. (10%)Manage knockout and transgenic mouse colonies. Design mating to generate new strains. Help is provided by Veterinary technician. Participate in ordering reagents and organizing their storage (10%)Help new staff and undergraduate students with lab techniques (6%) Analyze and graph data from own experiments. Help maintains backup computer where data are stored. Help in preparing graphics for manuscripts and grants. Compute capability GraphPad and Photoshop preferred (6%)Maintain accurate and detailed records of research data. Update electronic databases as needed (6%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Perform other duties as assigned, e.g. help in preparation IACUC protocols (<1%) Participate in lab meetings (<1%)Help in glassware and general lab organization (<1%)Help maintain equipment (<1%)Help PI with manuscript and grant documents (<1%)

CONTACTS

Department: Daily contact with supervisor,

University: Minimal contact outside of ARC staff

External: Minimal contact.

Students: Daily availability with graduate and undergraduate researchers in the lab to answer questions.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

No direct supervisory responsibility. Train new staff. Teach and direct the work of students.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education: Bachelor’s degree in related science.

Experience: 3 to 5 years of related experience preferably in biochemistry, immunology, and/or molecular biology. Previous work with mice desired.

REQUIRED SKILLS

Advanced computer skills; familiar with MS Office applications, database programs, and internet navigation.Familiarity with Molecular biology, cell signaling, qPCR, flow cytometry, and cell culture.Professional and effective verbal and written communication skills, and good interpersonal skills with the ability to work with various individuals.Strong organization skills; ability to multi-task, prioritize and meet deadlines. Must demonstrate attention to detail and accuracy, time management skills, and proven ability to successfully follow-through on assigned projects.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 excellent analytical skills, sound judgment and good decision-making.Must demonstrate willingness to learn new techniques, procedures, processes, and computer programs as needed.Must demonstrate compliance with university animal research and care (ARC) policies and procedures and compliance to regulations of the Animal Welfare Act, Public Health Service Policy, AAALAC guidelines and other applicable regulatory guidelines.Must demonstrate compassion for animals within university facilities and dedication to the Animal Resource Center’s mission. Must handle animals with care and respect at all times. Must be able and willing to learn new techniques, procedures, processes, and computer gear to protect the health of the animals. Previous experience working with animals preferred. Ability to meet consistent attendance. Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors, and customers face to face.

WORKING CONDITIONS

General laboratory environment. The employee will be exposed to animals and chemicals.

Case Western Reserve University’s animal facilities are accredited by the Association for the Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care (AAALAC) and is managed according to the “Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals” appropriate Federal Animal Welfare Regulations, and the Public Health Service “Policy on the Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals.” This position, and all animal research personnel, are subject to internal compliance to SOM Animal Resource Center Standard Operating Procedures and to compliance regulations of the Animal Welfare Act, Public Health Service Policy, AAALAC guidelines, the State of Ohio Veterinary Practice Act, Federal Drug Enforcement Administration regulatory guidelines, US Food and Drug Administration Center for Veterinary Medicine regulations and other applicable regulatory guidelines.

Diversity Statement

In employment, as in education, Case Western Reserve University is committed to Equal Opportunity and Diversity. Women, veterans, members of underrepresented minority groups, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

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Reasonable Accommodations

Case Western Reserve University provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact the Office of Equity at 216-368-3066 to request a reasonable accommodation. Determinations as to granting reasonable accommodations for any applicant will be made on a case-by-case basis.

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