Job Description

POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under moderate supervision, the Research Assistant 1 will perform technical and organization tasks linked to the overall research goals of the group. Key responsibilities will include maintaining inventory of items in the laboratory, keeping standard operating procedures and safety datasheets up to date, training new group members in safety procedures, performing basic molecular biological techniques to maintain plasmid production, bacterial cultures, autoclaving, biohazard waste disposal, and group data management.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS * Perform and maintain bacterial and mammalian cell lines. Prepare plasmid samples, buffers and aliquots for long term storage of DNA material. Conduct analysis of samples. Assist other group members in polymerase chain reaction experiments, agarose gel electrophoresis, fluorescence plate assays, other technical procedures. Ensure the supply of Mili-Q water is up to date. (40%)

• Record results for a particular experiment or closely related series of experiments. Maintain records and data backup for all experiments. Ensure all lab notebooks are accounted for. Assist in collecting references for manuscripts. Assist in poster printing and other group related scientific presentation material. (20%)
• Order laboratory supplies. Keep inventory sheets updated, prepare a list of items that need to be purchased. Collate the material safety datasheets for every chemical in the lab. Keep standard operating procedures and safety datasheets up to date, train new group members in safety procedures and biohazard waste disposal. Ensure proper storage conditions for each chemical are met. Maintain test equipment utilized in experiments. (30%)
• Assist in activities and event planning including group research meetings, itinerary, and taking meeting minutes. (6%)

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: Daily contact with students to discuss research, train, and maintain workflow.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

This position has no direct supervision of staff employees.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Experience: Bachelor\xe2\x80\x99s degree in Chemistry and/or Biology and 0 to 1 year of experience in hands-on experimental research in biochemistry, nanotechnology, or bioengineering or Associate\xe2\x80\x99s degree in an approved biotechnology program and 0 to 2 years of experience required.

REQUIRED SKILLS * Has fundamental knowledge in DNA origami and nanoparticle design and assembly.

• Has hands on experience in polymerase chain reaction, agarose gel electrophoresis, and bacterial cell culture.
• Has good knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, data presentation in slides, and report writing.
• Has the ability to follow long chemistry and biology related experimental procedures, analyze complex data heavy problems, and summarize results into graphical plots.
• Ability to meet consistent attendance.
• Ability to mentor junior members of the group and train them in various experimental techniques.
• Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors, and students face to face.

WORKING CONDITIONS

The workplace is a biosafety-2 level laboratory. It may have some hazardous chemicals, pressurized gas cylinders, acids. Personal protective gear (lab coat, safety goggles, and gloves) are to be worn when working.

Diversity Statement

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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Reasonable Accommodations

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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Case Western Reserve University