Research Assistant 2

POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under general supervision, the Research Assistant 2 will work with other staff and trainees in the lab to carry out research projects related to the development of biomarker assays for neurodegenerative diseases. The Kraus lab studies the misfolded protein seeds of neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's disease and Lewy body dementias, chronic traumatic encephalopathy, and prion diseases. The lab uses existing and newly developed ultrasensitive diagnostic assays to measure protein seeds in human samples. The lab also uses cryo-electron microscopy, cellular, and animal models to understand the structural underpinnings and biological mechanisms that contribute to the formation and accumulation of neurodegenerative disease-associated protein seeds. This position may work with animals.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Plan and carry out research experiments in accordance with general plans. Conduct a series of experiments to supply scientific information as part of a larger project. Perform analyses with quantitative analytical data generated from RT-QuIC and related assays. This includes use of software to analyze kinetic and quantitative information of assay readouts. Perform qualitative analysis including electron microscopy and other biochemical/biophysical techniques to support biomarker assay development (50%)
2. May assist in developing improved techniques, methods or procedures including participation in collaborative efforts to develop RT-QuIC assays as biomarker assays for diagnostically relevant biospecimens. (10%)
3. Collect and analyze data, This position is responsible for collecting, verifying, recording, and compiling data and information related to the ongoing research carried out in the lab in addition to participating in biospecimen pickup and cataloguing to support ongoing study efforts. (20%)
4. Maintain certain equipment facilities, including routine maintenance of laboratory equipment to support biomarker assay development. Oversee laboratory supply inventory and ordering. (10%)
5. Train new staff; work with other students and senior trainees in the lab on collaborative projects. (10%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Perform other duties as assigned.

CONTACTS

Department: Daily contact with supervisor or designated lab staff to discuss research and maintain workflow.

University: Occasional contact with other departments to share information.

External: Occasional 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. Train new staff; direct the work of students.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and experience: bachelor's degree and 1 to 3 years of related experience or associate's degree in an approved biotechnology program and 2 to 4 years of experience.

REQUIRED SKILLS

1. Knowledge and understanding of commonly-used procedures within the field of protein biochemistry, molecular biology and other related technologies. Expertise in RT-QuIC and protein purification is required.
2. Previous experience working with animal and human tissues preferred.
3. Excellent oral and written communication skills and interpersonal skills; must demonstrate the ability to effectively and professionally communicate and work with various individuals from a broad spectrum of disciplines, technical and educational backgrounds within the department, School and University, and with individuals outside the University.
4. Good organization skills; ability to multi-task, prioritize and meet deadlines. Must demonstrate attention to detail and accuracy, time management skills, and follow-through.
5. Must demonstrate willingness to learn new techniques, procedures, processes, and computer programs as needed.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. Previous experience working with animals preferred.
9. Must demonstrate compliance with annual biosafety and laboratory training.
10. Ability to meet consistent attendance.
11. Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors, and customers face to face.
12. Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.
13. Ability to operate laboratory equipment. including but not limited to a centrifuge, shaker, and plate readers.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Standard laboratory conditions with some hazardous chemicals. Special hazards include biohazardous (potentially infectious) human brain and cerebrospinal fluid. The following personal protective equipment required: appropriate gloves, protective eyewear, laboratory coat, and safety shoes.

The lab is an open floor plan with abundant bench space for biochemistry and molecular biology experiments. Ample desk space with computers is also provided. Cell culture spaces are equipped with incubators, biosafety cabinets, and microscopes. Equipment for RT-QuIC reagent preparation and analysis, including an FPLC and multiple plate readers are available within the lab space. The lab is equipped with shared fume hood spaces for handling and storage of hazardous and non-hazardous materials. Major physical demands include standing/sitting for extended periods of time for experimental benchtop work.

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 SOM 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.

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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.

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