What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Assistant 2 position at Case Western Reserve University?
Salary Grade
Case Western Reserve University is committed to providing a transparent estimate of the salary for this position at the time of its posting. The starting wage rate is $19.41 per hour.
Employees receive more than just a paycheck. University employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare, retirement plans, tuition assistance, paid time off, and a winter recess.
Job Description
POSITION OBJECTIVE
Working under general supervision, plan and carry out research project in accordance with general plans. The Research Assistant 2 will work closely with the principal investigator to perform laboratory/research activities and research assignments of a non-routine nature to explore the hormonal control of the process and timing of birth. The research assistant will coordinate research activities to implement, test and validate data collection using methods in protein chemistry, molecular (mRNA) and cellular biology and whole animal physiology. The research assistant may assist trainees and contribute to research publications and grant applications. Laboratory duties will involve the handling of live animals (mice).
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Plan and carry out project in accordance with general plans. Coordinate laboratory/research activities. Work closely with the principal investigator to manage, monitor and facilitate progress of specific research objectives. (40%)
- Conduct a series of experiments to supply scientific information as part of a larger project. This includes designing and performing experiments using methods in protein chemistry, molecular (mRNA) and cellular biology, and whole animal physiology. Collect and analyze data to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the results. Work closely with the principal investigator to ensure validity and quality control of assay techniques and in vivo and in vitro models. (40%).
- Train new staff; direct the work of students. Assist new staff and trainees in specific laboratory techniques pertaining to research into the physiologic control of birth timing. This includes methods in protein chemistry, molecular (mRNA) and cellular biology, and whole animal physiology. Ensure they understand and can implement data collection, testing, and validation procedures. (10%).
NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- May assist in developing improved assay techniques (e.g., specify protein and mRNA quantification and Histologic localization) (5%).
- Oversee inventory. Maintain laboratory instruments and reagents (5%)
- Perform other duties (e.g., prepare figure for publications; assist with animal husbandry) as assigned. (5%)
CONTACTS
Department: Daily contact with supervisor to discuss research and maintain workflow.
University: Occasional contact with other departments to share information regarding equipment and shared reagents.
External: Limited or no contact with vendors to exchange information regarding equipment maintenance, reagent quality and availability.
Students: Contact with student employees to train, supervise, assist and exchange information.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY
This position has no direct supervision of staff employees. Train new staff and/or students/trainees in specific assays and procedures.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education and experience: Bachelor's degree and 1 to 3 years of related experience or Associate's degree in an approved biotechnology program and 2 to 4 years of experience.
REQUIRED SKILLS
- Knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures of molecular biology, protein chemistry and/or histology in the field of reproductive biology.
- Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform research activities. Desire and ability to learn and master novel techniques and follow pre-established protocols.
- Ability to safely operate laboratory equipment and handle laboratory reagents. Ability to work with sensitive information and maintain confidentiality.
- 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.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills and ability to work effectively independently and within a team.
- Good interpersonal skills; ability to work and communicate with various individuals within the laboratory and department and external to the University.
- Ability to meet consistent attendance.
- Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors, and customers face to face.
- Demonstrated history of 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.
- Good organization skills; ability to multi-task, prioritize and give attention to detail in order to complete tasks and meet deadlines. Ability to budget time effectively, and work on several projects simultaneously.
- Must maintain meticulous, complete, and easily retrievable laboratory records and data.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, changing environment, and conform to shifting priorities, demands and timeline. Must be able to respond to project adjustments and alterations promptly and efficiently. Must be able to adapt to varying workloads and respond appropriately to stressful situations.
WORKING CONDITIONS
The laboratories, located on the 8th floor of MacDonald Women¿s Hospital, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, have abundant bench space for biochemical analyses and animal handling and manipulations. Desk space with a personal work station is provided. The labs are equipped with fume hoods and facilities to store hazardous and non-hazardous materials. Employee will undergo training in laboratory safety and the handling of material with a blood-borne pathogen risk. Appropriate protective equipment such as gloves, laboratory coat and eyewear will be provided and all duties will be performed in a safe/approved manner. Major physical demands include transferring animals to the laboratory from the animal holding facility.
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.
EEO Statement
Case Western Reserve University is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are protected under federal and state laws and university policy from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin, protected veteran status, disability, age and genetic information.
Reasonable Accommodations
Case Western Reserve University complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act regarding reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact the CWRU Office of Equity at 216-368-3066 to request a reasonable accommodation. Determinations as to granting reasonable accommodations for any applicants will be made on a case-by-case basis.
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Salary : $19
