Job Information
Case Western Reserve University Research Assistant 3 in Cleveland, Ohio
POSITION OBJECTIVE
Working under limited supervision, coordinate research work in medical and related technical areas including animal and human tissue processing, various immunohistochemistry assays, protein chemistry including gel electrophoresis and western blotting, and assist with general lab maintenance. The Zhu laboratory studies neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer disease, Parkinson disease and other related diseases. Specifically, the lab focuses on how mitochondria in various cell types contribute to the cell death and disease progression. The research assistant will work closely with lab members including the principal investigator, research associates, post-doctoral scholars, and other research assistants, and learn to design, perform, and analyze experiments. This position will work with animals (mice), specifically working on mouse colony breeding and performing PCR genotyping analysis.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Work closely with the principal investigator to coordinate laboratory/ research activities. Oversee daily operations, ensure lab safety compliance, and maintain annual training records. Serve as the primary point of contact for shipping/receiving and equipment sterilization. (20%)
- Carry out complex research assignments of a non-routine nature. Independently perform non-routine histological and biochemical studies on human and animal samples. Execute advanced microscopy (confocal/fluorescent) and digital image acquisition. Advanced Molecular Biology & Technical Execution: Perform complex gel electrophoresis, Western blotting, and PCR genotyping for mouse models. Evaluate the adequacy of current techniques and troubleshoot technical challenges. (25%)
- Devise new protocols and techniques for research projects involving a high degree of skill and training. Maintain and analyze specialized tissue culture cell lines. (15%)
- Evaluate adequacy of techniques; study and test new procedures and analyzes data. Use Excel, Image J, and Adobe Creative Suite to analyze, quantify, and prepare high-quality figures for presenting results to the PI. May co-author research manuscripts and contribute to grant applications. (15%)
- May monitor the laboratory budget. Monitor the laboratory budget and grant expenditures. Independently order reagents and supplies via the university online system. (10%)
NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- May supervise students and technicians. Supervise, train, and direct the work of students and junior technical staff. Ensure all lab members adhere to established guidelines. (5%)
- May co-author research projects by working with the principal investigator and laboratory team. (5%)
- Perform other duties as assigned. (5%)
CONTACTS
Department: Daily contact with supervisor and other lab personnel to discuss research and maintain workflow.
University: Occasional contact with other labs/ departments to share information.
External: Limited contact with vendors to exchange information. Limited contact with outside collaborators to receive/ ship samples and exchange information.
Students: Daily contact with students in the lab to exchange information.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY
May supervise students and technicians.
QUALIFICATIONS
Experience: 3 to 5 years of related experience required.
Education: Bachelor of Science degree required.
REQUIRED SKILLS
Has knowledge of basic laboratory skills including pipetting, basic chemistry lab techniques including weighing using analytical balance, preparing solutions, pH meter usage.
Ability to work effectively independently