Description

POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under moderate supervision, the Research Assistant 1 will perform research work focused on target identification and validation in head and neck cancer. The role supports the laboratory's mission of developing innovative technologies that translate from bench to bedside to improve the outcomes of head and neck cancer patients. This position involves applying established experimental protocols using cell-based and mouse model systems. This position will work with animals. This is a one-year term position.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Perform research work using lab skills; key responsibilities include cell culture maintenance of established and new cell lines, applying established experimental protocols to evaluate potential fitness genes in head and neck cancer model systems. (50%) 
Conduct analysis of samples. Process biospecimens for the head and neck cancer biorepository. Key responsibilities include isolating cfDNA PMBCs, and plasma from blood tubes, and digesting tumors into single cell suspensions (10%) 
Record results for a particular experiment or closely related series of experiments. Maintain detailed electronic laboratory notebook documenting experimental design, parameters, and results. (10%)
Maintain records of experiments. Organize results using appropriate software (such as Excel, Powerpoint, etc.) to support weekly group and individual meetings. (10%) 
Order laboratory supplies including reagents and consumables. Track inventory and coordinate with vendor (10%)
Maintain test equipment utilized in experiments. Perform general laboratory maintenance to support daily operations. Key responsibilities include liquid nitrogen tank, -20C and -80C freezers, and research waste removal (5%)
 

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Perform other duties as assigned. (5%)

CONTACTS 

Department: Daily contact with supervisor to discuss research and maintain workflow.

University: Infrequent to no contact with other departments to share information.

External: Occasional contact with vendors to obtain quotes, place orders, and resolve ordering issues.

Students: Regular contact with PhD students in the laboratory to exchange information.

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 

Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures in molecular biology and biochemistry. 
Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. 
Ability to operate laboratory equipment.
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. 
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 Case Western Reserve 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 experimental techniques, procedures, processes and computer gear to protect the health of the animals.
Previous experience working with animals preferred.
Willingness to learn and utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Ability to meet consistent attendance.
Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors and customers face to face.
 

WORKING CONDITIONS

General laboratory environment. Routine work with biological materials (cell cultures and patient biospecimens) and chemical reagents. May have exposure to hazards associated with lentivirus research work. Work with animal models (mice) may be required. Standard personal protective equipment including lab coat, gloves, and goggles will be provided to limit exposure to hazards. May occasionally be required to work on weekends for certain time-based experimental protocols.

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.

Apply online at jobs.case.edu search job posting 14385