Description

POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under general supervision, the Senior Research Assistant 1 carries out research activities according to established instructions in support of laboratory studies focused on multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer. This position supports research projects aimed at augmenting immune responses against cancer cells by performing laboratory experiments, analyzing results, and contributing to data interpretation. The role works closely with the principal investigator and lab staff to execute study procedures, maintain laboratory operations, and support ongoing research objectives through accurate and timely experimental work. This position will work with animals.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS.

Carry out experiments according to specific instructions and assist with planning experiments to support ongoing research studies by performing basic cell culture of human multiple myeloma cells, conducting in vitro treatment of cells with experimental drugs under the guidance of the principal investigator, and executing laboratory assays including western blotting and flow cytometry using established protocols. Analyze experimental results and document findings in accordance with laboratory and study requirements. (40%)
Collaborate with lab staff and the principal investigator to conduct a series of experiments to supply scientific information as part of larger research projects by contributing to experimental planning discussions, coordinating laboratory activities, and independently performing assigned experimental procedures such as cell¿based assays, protein analysis, and flow cytometric analysis to support project objectives. (30%)
Organize samples and analyze data to contribute to large projects. Provide interpretation of data and suggest potential improvements to techniques and procedures. Organize biological samples and analyze experimental data to contribute to larger research projects by compiling results from cell culture experiments, western blotting, and flow cytometry, interpreting findings in collaboration with the principal investigator, and suggesting potential improvements to experimental techniques or laboratory procedures based on observed results. (10%)
Maintain certain equipment and/or facilities. Maintain certain laboratory equipment and facilities to ensure safe and effective research operations by supporting the proper use and routine upkeep of tissue culture hoods, flow cytometers, and general laboratory workspaces in accordance with established procedures and safety standards. (6%)
Manage supplies of the lab, including inventory and submitting orders as requested. Manage laboratory supplies to ensure continuity of experimental work by tracking inventory levels of reagents and consumables used for cell culture, western blotting, and flow cytometry, and submitting supply orders as requested to support scheduled experiments. (6%)
 

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 

May assist in training new staff and students on lab operations and maintenance; direct the work of students. This includes providing instruction on basic laboratory techniques, equipment use, and safety practices related to cell culture and experimental workflows, and directing student work as assigned by the principal investigator. (4%)
Perform other duties as assigned, which includes but is not limited to updating lab logs, clean glassware, and manuscript proofing. (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: Contact with student employees to exchange information.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

This position has no direct supervision of staff employees. Train new staff; 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 

Knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures: Ability to perform tissue culture, treat cells in vitro, perform basic flow cytometry and western blotting. 
Basic skills in mouse handling and injections are preferred. 
Knowledge of R and graphpad, preferred.
Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. 
Ability to operate laboratory equipment.
Must demonstrate compliance with CWRU 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 CWRU facilities and dedication to the Animal Resource Center¿s mission. Must handle animals with care and respect at all times.
Previous experience working with animals preferred.
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

Work is performed in a laboratory environment located on the second floor of the Wolstein Research Building (WRB), which includes two laboratory benches and a tissue culture hood. Core work hours are generally 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; however, this position requires flexibility to remain on site beyond standard hours when planned experiments extend past the normal workday. Occasional brief after¿hours work may also be required to support experiments conducted at multiple time points. The laboratory environment includes exposure to biohazards such as lentiviruses, bacteria, and human blood, as well as chemical hazards including chemotherapy agents and antibiotics. Personal protective equipment (PPE), including lab coats, gloves, and goggles, may be required and is provided to minimize exposure to potential hazards. 

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 medical school 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.