Description
POSITION OBJECTIVE
Working under limited supervision, the Research Assistant 3 will support chemical biology and chemical proteomics research focused on discovery of small-molecule ligands and characterization of protein function in cancer and immunology-related systems. The position will design and execute experimental workflows, coordinate laboratory operations, and contribute to data analysis and method development. This role directly supports the lab's mission to develop chemical tools to uncover new biology and therapeutic opportunities. This position will work with animal models and animal-derived samples as part of approved research protocols.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Design and independently execute biochemical, cell-based, and animal-related experimental workflows, including proteomics sample preparation, functional assays, and processing of animal-derived biological samples, to support ongoing research projects. (20%)
Analyze and interpret biochemical, cell-based, and animal-study data, including preparation of figures and summaries for internal discussion and publication; apply statistical and quantitative methods where appropriate to assess experimental quality, reproducibility, and biological significance. (20%)
Devise, optimize, troubleshoot, and validate new protocols and techniques for research projects requiring advanced skill and training, including proteomics sample preparation, ligand-engagement assays, cell-based functional assays, and animal-related sample processing workflows; evaluate protocol adequacy by testing controls, reproducibility, signal-to-noise, data quality, and suitability for downstream analysis. (10%)
Coordinate laboratory operations, including reagent preparation, inventory management, equipment maintenance, animal protocol documentation and support as applicable, and compliance with institutional safety, animal research, and regulatory standards. (20%)
Collaborate closely with the principal investigator to plan biochemical, cell-based, and animal-related experiments, prioritize research directions, and implement new techniques; contribute to experimental design, strategy, and evaluation of feasibility. (10%)
Train and supervise junior personnel (students or technicians) in laboratory techniques, standard operating procedures, and approved animal-related procedures as applicable; ensure reproducibility, data quality, and adherence to safety and animal research compliance requirements. (10%)
Maintain detailed and organized experimental records, animal-related study documentation as applicable, and databases to ensure data integrity, regulatory compliance, and reproducibility. (6%)
NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Participate in lab meetings, seminars, and training activities. (1%)
May monitor the laboratory budget by tracking routine research expenditures, reviewing supply and animal-related service costs, maintaining purchasing records, and alerting the PI to budgetary or purchasing issues. (2%)
Perform other duties as assigned. (1%)
CONTACTS
Department: Continuous interaction with principal investigator and lab members to coordinate research activities and share data.
University: Occasional interaction with core facilities (e.g., proteomics core, animal cores) to coordinate experiments.
External: Occasional interaction with collaborators or vendors for technical support and materials procurement.
Students: Moderate interaction with undergraduate or graduate trainees for experimental work.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
May train undergraduate students and junior lab members. No direct hiring or disciplinary authority.
QUALIFICATIONS
Experience: 3 to 5 years of relevant laboratory research experience in molecular biology, biochemistry, or related biomedical field. Experience in cell culture, protein assays, or in vivo models preferred.
Education/Licensing: Bachelor's degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, chemistry, or related field required.
REQUIRED SKILLS
Strong experimental skills in molecular biology, biochemistry, or cell biology. Experience in purchasing and overseeing reagent inventory and equipment. Strong communication and teamwork skills.
Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.
Willingness to learn and work with artificial intelligence (AI) tools and technologies.
Ability to demonstrate 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 and supervisors face to face.
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 techniques, procedures, processes, and computer gear to protect the health of the animals.
Previous experience working with animals preferred.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Work is performed primarily in a laboratory environment with exposure to biological and chemical hazards. Requires use of personal protective equipment (PPE). May involve handling cell lines, chemical reagents, and standard laboratory instrumentation. Occasional lifting of laboratory materials (up to ~30 lbs.).
Case Western Reserve University's animal facilities are accredited by the Associate 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 the School of Medicine's 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.
