Research Assistant 1 Location Cleveland, OH (University District area) : POSITION OBJECTIVE Working under moderate supervision, the Research Assistant 1 will perform research work investigating the role of maternal immunization in generating protective immunity against influenza in neonates. The Research Assistant 1 will culture cells under sterile conditions, perform influenza neutralization and hemagglutinin inhibition assays, and assist in the collection and processing of biological samples from experimental ferrets. The Research Assistant I will also collect, verify, record, and compile data and information related to these projects. This position will work with animals. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS. 1. Perform research work in medical and related technical areas involves use of lab skills. Prepare reagents and experimental supplies for in vitro and in vivo studies of influenza immunity. Optimize and implement influenza neutralization and hemagglutination inhibition assays for the assessment of antibody functions using experimental ferret samples. This will involve culturing MDCK cells, using cell isolation and purification methods, and the use of immunofluorescent antibodies for reading on a spectrophotometer. (30%) 2. Conduct analysis of samples. Prepare collection materials for biological samples. Collect these materials and process them in the laboratory. These materials (serum, milk, intestinal contents) will be used for the influenza neutralization and hemagglutination inhibition assays for the assessment of antibody function. (20%) 3. Record results for a particular experiment or closely related series of experiments. Record data generated from the influenza neutralization and hemagglutination inhibition assays. These data will be prepared for internal lab meetings and external consortium meetings. Utilize Excel and GraphPad PRISM for these purposes. (20%) 4. Maintain records of experiments. The employee will maintain clear and organized notebooks (both hard copy and e-notebook) documenting procedures followed for the influenza neutralization and hemagglutination inhibition assays. (10%) 5. Maintain test equipment utilized in experiments (10%). Perform weekly/monthly maintenance on key pieces of equipment, clean equipment, and lab ware; dispose of biohazardous waste. (10%) 6. Order laboratory supplies. Order reagents and other laboratory supplies. Maintain inventory of reagents, supplies, and samples for experiments related to maternal immunization project. Maintain chemical/ biological inventory in compliance with Environmental Health and Safety. (6%) NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Perform other duties as assigned. The employee may be asked to assist in other duties around the lab including but not limited to filling of CO2 tank, maintenance of freezers/fridges, and assisting others in experiments. (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: little or no contact with students. 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 1. Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within biology. 2. Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. 3. Ability to operate laboratory equipment. 4. Ability to meet consistent attendance. 5. Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors and vendors face to face. 6. 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. 7. 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. 8. Must be able and willing to learn new techniques, procedures, processes, and computer gear to protect the health of the animals. 9. Previous experience working with animals preferred but not required. 10. Strong molecular biology skills. 11. Strong organization skills and good habit of maintaining a clean lab working environment; demonstrate attention to detail and accuracy, time management skills, and proven ability to successfully follow through on assigned projects. 12. Professional and effective verbal and written communication skills and good interpersonal skills with the ability to work and communicate with various individuals within and external to the university. 13. Ability to work effectively independently and collaboratively within a team (must be highly motivated, responsible, dependable and a self-starter). 14. Ability to work with sensitive information and maintain confidentiality. 15. Proficiency in Microsoft Office preferred. 16. Must have the ability to maintain meticulous, complete, and easily retrievable laboratory data. 17. Must have the ability to willingly learn new techniques and procedures as needed, follow established protocols or laboratory procedures and request clarification if necessary. WORKING CONDITIONS General laboratory environment. The employee may be exposed to blood-borne pathogens, chemicals, and other hazards. Employee will need to wear appropriate protective equipment such as gloves, lab coat, and eyewear. Working conditions will require working at the bench in a molecular genetics/ biology laboratory, working with mice and other animal models in the laboratory and in the animal facility, and when needed working outside standard working days or hours as required by the needs of a given experiment. 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 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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