Description
POSITION OBJECTIVE
Working under moderate supervision, perform research work in medical and related technical fields. The Research Assistant 1 will support an NIH-funded human biomarker discovery investigation being carried out by laboratory housed within the School of Nursing. The project aims to establish a set of cell free RNA-based diagnostic tests, one for the clinical laboratory, and one for the point-of-care, that could be used to rapidly identify stroke in emergency medicine settings. The research assistant will help maintain a biorepository of human specimens, and perform various molecular biology tasks such as DNA/RNA isolation, conventional/quantitative/digital PCR, and bacterial cloning as part of larger overall experimental workflows. This position will also order supplies, help maintain the laboratory space and equipment, and work to ensure/document regulatory compliance. This position plays a key role in executing experimental workflows and ensuring smooth lab operations.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Perform research work in medical and related technical areas involves use of lab skills. Applies molecular biology techniques such as DNA/RNA isolation, PCR (quantitative, digital, and conventional), bacterial cloning, and in vitro transcription to assist in developing and evaluating cell-free RNA-based diagnostic tests (25%).
Conduct analysis of samples. Analize clinical specimens using prototype molecular diagnostic tests. (25%)
Record results for a particular experiment or closely related series of experiments. Organize and maintain experimental data using electronic databases. (10%)
Maintain records of experiments. Maintain records of experiments in a detailed electronic laboratory notebook to ensure proper documentation for regulatory compliance and research integrity. (10%)
Maintain test equipment utilized in experiments. Maintain a clean and organized lab environment and document compliance with State, Federal, and Institutional safety and biosafety regulations. (10%)
Order laboratory supplies. 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. (16%)
NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
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 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.
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 within a particular field.
Relies 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 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.
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.
Requirements
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.
