Description

POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under general supervision, the Senior Research Assistant 1 independently carries out research activities according to established protocols that support an NIH-funded human biomarker discovery investigation housed within the School of Nursing. The position supports a project aimed at establishing cell-free RNA-based diagnostic tests for both clinical laboratory and point-of-care use to rapidly identify stroke in emergency medicine settings. This role contributes by performing advanced molecular biology workflows, maintaining a human specimen biorepository, supporting laboratory operations, and ensuring regulatory compliance. This is a 24-month term position and plays a key role in executing experimental workflows, collaborating with research staff, and ensuring smooth laboratory operations.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 

Independently carry out experiments according to established protocol. Assist in planning molecular biology experiments to support a larger research project by implementing workflows to isolate nucleic acids from human biofluids, measuring DNA and RNA using amplification techniques such as quantitative PCR, digital PCR, and LAMP, and generating synthetic RNA standards using conventional PCR, bacterial cloning, and in vitro transcription. (40%)
Collaborate with lab staff and principal investigators to conduct a series of experiments to supply scientific information as part of a larger project. The senior research assistant  independently executes assigned experiments and provide technical expertise in coordinating molecular biology experiments involving human biofluids, contributing technical expertise to experimental workflows, and independently executing assigned experiments and tasks (10%).
Organize samples and analyze data in order to contribute to larger projects. Provide interpretation of data and suggest potential improvements to techniques and procedures. Maintain experimental data using electronic databases and maintain records of experiments in a detailed electronic laboratory notebook.
(20%)

Maintain certain equipment and/or facilities. Maintain laboratory equipment and facilities to support safe and effective research operations by keeping the lab clean and organized and documenting compliance with State, Federal, and Institutional safety and biosafety regulations. (10%)
Manage supplies of the lab, including inventory and submitting orders as requested. Maintain a biorepository of human specimens and ensure proper cataloging, storage, and organization. Coordinate the shipping and receiving of biological samples in compliance with institutional and regulatory guidelines. (10%)
Assist in training new staff and students on laboratory operations and maintenance; direct the work of students. (6%)
 

NONESSENTIAL FUNCITONS

Perform other duties as assigned. (4%)

CONTACTS

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

University: Occasional contact with other departments to share information.

External: Limited contact with vendors to exchange information.

Students: Regular contact with student employees to exchange information.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

This position has no direct supervision of staff employees. Train new staff and direct the work of students.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Experience: Bachelor's degree and 6 months of related experience or Associate's degree in an approved biotechnology program and 1 year of experience required. 

REQUIRED SKILLS 

Has knowledge of commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. 
Rely on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. 
Ability to operate laboratory equipment.
Strong theoretical and experiential understanding of basic molecular biology techniques such as nucleic acid isolation, PCR, gel electrophoresis, and molecular cloning.
Experience working with human biofluids is preferred.
Strong attention to scientific detail and technical problem-solving skills.
Strong organization skills are a must, including the ability to maintain meticulous, complete, and easily retrievable laboratory records.
Ability to effectively manage time, multi-task, prioritize, and meet deadlines.
Ability to maintain a clean laboratory working environment.
Above average computing skills and comfort using digital laboratory systems such as remote equipment monitoring systems, electronic inventory management solutions, electronic laboratory record keeping solutions, and cloud-based data storage solutions.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (particularly Excel) is essential. 
Professional and effective verbal and written communication skills, as well as good interpersonal skills, including the ability to work and communicate with various individuals within and external to the university.
Must be self-motivated, and demonstrate a willingness to learn new techniques, procedures, and processes as needed.
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. 
Ability to meet consistent attendance.
Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors and customers face to face.
Willingness to learn and utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI).
 

WORKING CONDITIONS

General laboratory environment. May have exposure to hazards. Will work with general chemicals and human biospecimens and will need to take general laboratory and biosafety training (provided through Case Western Environmental Health and Safety office). Personal protective equipment, including lab coat, gloves and goggles, will be provided to limit exposure to hazards.

Apply online at jobs.case.edu search job 14456