Research Assistant 1

POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under moderate supervision, the Research Assistant 1 will perform research projects to understand how small molecule metabolites produced by the microbiota, under the influence of host diet, serve as precursor substrates and receptor ligands to regulate metabolism and gene expression in epithelial cells. The lab conducts research in the field of nutritional biochemistry, focusing on how the gut microbiota interacts with the intestinal epithelium to promote tissue homeostasis and how these interactions become altered in pathological states, like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This position will work with animals.

Essential Functions

• Perform laboratory research and carry out protocols as directed by the principal investigator. Studies will involve, but are not limited to, mammalian cell and organoid culture, bacterial culture, PCR/qPCR, transfection and lentivirus-mediated transduction of nucleic acids, Western blotting, isolation of biological molecules (DNA, RNA, protein, metabolites) from cells and tissues, tissue histology, stable isotope tracing by LC-MS/MS, and luciferase assays. Conduct analysis of samples. Experiments may also involve immunofluorescence, NGS for transcriptomics, genomics, and 16S-based microbial community profiling, flow cytometry, and bacterial culture. (60%)
• Perform mouse experiments, including breeding, genotyping, oral gavaging, and tissue collection. (24%)
• Record results for a particular experiment or closely related series of experiments. Maintain clear, accurate, and detailed records of experimental procedures, results, and conclusions. (10%)
• As needed, assist with general organization and maintenance of the laboratory; order supplies, manage inventories, and maintain test equipment utilized in experiments. (6%)
  
  
  

Nonessential Functions

Perform other duties as assigned. (<1%)

CONTACTS

Department: Daily contact with supervisor and other lab members 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: Frequent contact with student employees to exchange information.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

This position has no direct supervision of staff employees.

Qualifications

Education/Experience: Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences and 0 to 1 year of laboratory experience or Associate's degree in an approved biotechnology program and 0 to 2 years of experience required.

Required Skills

• Possesses knowledge of common concepts and experimental procedures related to biochemistry and cell and molecular biology, such as cell culture, DNA preparation, PCR, immunoblotting, etc.
• Ability to willingly learn new techniques and procedures quickly as needed, follow established protocols or laboratory procedures and request clarification if necessary.
• Ability to work effectively independently and collaboratively within a team (must be highly motivated, responsible, dependable and a self-starter).
• Professional and effective verbal and written communication skills and good interpersonal skills with the ability to work and communicate with various individuals within and external to the university.
• Ability to operate laboratory equipment.
• Ability to maintain complete and easily retrievable laboratory data.
• Strong organization skills and good habit of maintaining a clean lab working environment; demonstrate attention to detail and accuracy, time management skills, and proven ability to successfully follow through on assigned projects.
• Ability to meet consistent attendance.
• Ability to interact with colleagues and supervisors face to face.
• Must demonstrate compliance with Case Western Reserve 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 maintain a high standard of personal cleanliness and utilize protective gear to protect the health of the animals.
• Experience or willingness to learn to work with mouse models and maintain mouse colonies. Previous experience working with mice preferred.
  
  
  

WORKING CONDITIONS

General biochemistry laboratory environment with potential exposure to chemical and biological hazards. Personal protective equipment, including lab coat, gloves and goggles, will be provided to limit exposure to hazards. Certain experiments or animal care may require occasional work on early mornings, evenings, and/or weekends.

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 School of Medicine 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.

In employment, as in education, Case Western Reserve University is committed to Equal Opportunity and Diversity. Women, veterans, members of underrepresented minority groups, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Case Western Reserve University provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact the Office of Equity at 216-368-3066 to request a reasonable accommodation. Determinations as to granting reasonable accommodations for any applicant will be made on a case-by-case basis.