Research Assistant 2

Job description

Job Title: Research Assistant 2
Location: Case Main Campus
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Full/Part Time: Full-Time
Job ID: 8715
Job Description POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under general supervision of the principal investigator, the Research Assistant 2 will plan and carry out projects in accordance with general plans in the Department of Biochemistry. The studies will largely involve testing glucagon action and novel insulin analogues in normal and diabetic rats. The research assistant will also help conduct experiments using physiological, biochemical and molecular biology techniques under direct supervision. This position will work with animals.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Plan and carry out studies in rats including venous, peritoneal, or subcutaneous injections. Organize and assist in the induction of diabetes in rats. Maintain the health of the colony of normal and diabetic rats. (35%) Conduct experiments using the euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic and hyperglycemic clamp protocols. Accurately and efficiently perform assigned laboratory tasks. Collect and analyze the data of clamp experiments and calculate the amount of glucose production and glucose utilization. In addition, from the data of standard glycemia-lowering studies, calculate the relative potency of various insulin analogues. (35%). Work with research faculty to improve protocols and lab function. Provide suggestions for improvements and assist with implementation of new processes and procedures to test new agents or adapt established protocols to enhance the work of the lab. (10%)Oversee laboratory inventories, order and stock reagents, maintain laboratory environment and equipment. Maintain adherence to the laboratory’s high quality and efficiency standards. Assure adherence to all applicable regulatory guidelines (15%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Train new staff and direct the work of students. (5%)Perform other duties as assigned. (<1%)

CONTACTS

Department: Daily contact with principal investigator, other laboratory staff/students and faculty as needed for research.

University: Regular contact with collaborative investigators, as needed for research.

External: Little to no contact with supply vendors.

Students: Regular contact with student employees to exchange research information.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

No supervisory responsibility.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Experience: Bachelor’s degree and 1 to 3 years of experience or Associate’s degree in an approved biotechnology program and 2 to 4 years of experience required. Prefer Bachelor’s degree in one of the biological sciences. At least 1 year of experience in biological research using live rats preferred.

REQUIRED SKILLS

Knowledge and experience of rodent husbandry and handling is essential. Experience using glycemic clamp protocols is highly desirable. Previous experience working with animals preferred.Must demonstrate compliance with Case Western Reserve 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 Case Western Reserve University facilities and dedication to the Animal Resource Center’s mission. Must handle animals with care and respect at all times.Knowledge and understanding of commonly-used concepts, practices and procedures within the fields of endocrinology, biochemistry and physiology. Knowledge and experience in molecular biology techniques including qPCR, western blot and quantitative analysis of tissue samples is essential.Good organization skills: ability to multi-task, prioritize and meet deadlines. Must demonstrate attention to detail and accuracy, time management and follow through. Attention to scientific detail by carefully following research experiments protocols.Ability to file, perform data entry, organize materials and maintain a detailed lab notebook.Excellent oral and written communication skills and interpersonal skills; must demonstrate the ability to effectively and professionally communicate and work with various individuals from a broad spectrum of disciplines, technical and educational backgrounds within the department, school and university and with individuals outside the university.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 sound judgment and good decision making.Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel and power-point, database applications and with internet navigation.Must demonstrate willingness to learn new techniques, procedures, processes and computer programs as needed.Must be able and willing to maintain a high standard of personal cleanliness and utilize protective gear to protect the health the animals.Ability to meet consistent attendance.Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors and customers face to face.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Will be working with general chemicals and radioisotopes and will need to take Lab, Chemical and Radiation Safety Training. Will need standard lab coat and to wear gloves and occasionally safety glasses.

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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