Senior Research Assistant

Company: Case Western Reserve University
Location: Strongsville
Posted on: January 25, 2023

Job Description:

Job Description


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POSITION OBJECTIVE
Working under limited supervision, the Research Assistant 3 will coordinate laboratory/research activities for the National Prion Disease Surveillance Center lab dedicated to diagnostic and research work on prion diseases. The research assistant will facilitate ongoing specimen accessioning, tissue bank management, laboratory inventory management, and quality control.
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ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Work closely with the principal investigator and lab director to utilize new and innovative techniques involving a high degree of skill and training. Accession samples accurately in a BSL2 lab. Handle prion infected specimens and evaluate them for testing viability in a timely manner. Devise new protocols and techniques for research projects. Evaluate adequacy of techniques; study and test new procedures and analyze. May co-author research projects. (20%) Prepare, evaluate, and assign samples to relevant lab staff, including genetic DNA extraction, CSF, histology and Western Blot testing. Document all correspondence and input information in database. Handle specimen verification calls to the sender or referring physician to verify how the sample was treated and any other knowledge deemed necessary. (20%) Coordinate and facilitate the transfer of research samples between the university and other institutions ensuring all applicable policies are adhered to. Manage all import permits. Authorize all shipping and slide picture requests, including receiving and exporting of materials. Obtain hazardous shipping certificate. (15%) Coordinate activities of laboratory/research staff regarding RT-QuIC recombinant preparation for diagnostic testing. Perform accurate, complex RT-QuIC diagnostic testing and analysis. (15%) Regularly monitor requests, locate samples by freezer location, communicate and provide samples to appropriate lab personnel for processing. Evaluate and manage freezer locations and tissue bank space needs. Reorganize all specimens as necessary to better suit and facilitate the department's work (10%) Organize, label and transfer repository of archived fixed brain tissue from large containers to smaller containers for long-term storage purposes. (10%) Oversee supply inventory. Train new laboratory technicians and student employees. (5%) Function independently, handle emergencies, exercise tact and independent judgment in difficult and important transactions concerning other institutions and Case Western Reserve University. (5%)

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NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Perform other duties as assigned. (
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CONTACTS
Department: Frequent contact with the manager and director of the center. Frequent contact with other members of the research and diagnostic groups, other support personnel, faculty, and postdoctoral fellows.
University: Occasional contact with faculty and staff in the School of Medicine, University Hospital Department of Medicine and numerous support and service departments in University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve University.
External: Frequent contact with suppliers of laboratory products and supplies.
Students: Occasional contact with student employees.
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SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY
No direct supervision of staff employees. Train new laboratory technicians and student employees and occasionally direct the work of student employees when necessary.
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QUALIFICATIONS
Experience: 3 to 5 years of related experience required.
Education/Licensing: Bachelor's degree in science required, preferably in chemistry or biology.
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REQUIRED SKILLS
Must be extremely well organized and capable of setting priorities while maintaining consistent attention to accuracy and quality. Must show great transparency in work and be able to create SOP's as necessary for work functions and protocols. Must keep exceptionally accurate and easily retrievable records. Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within the field of chemistry and biology. Must be motivated to explore and learn new laboratory techniques and must be able to teach laboratory techniques to other technicians. Ability to work under pressure, multi-task, and be a team player. Punctuality and good attendance required. Ability to meet consistent attendance. Must be able to manage specimen storage for permanent tissue bank Ability to operate laboratory equipment. 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. Good/strong organization skills; ability to multi-task, prioritize and meet deadlines. Must demonstrate attention to detail and accuracy, time management skills, and follow-through. Ability to work with sensitive information and maintain confidentiality. Effective problem-solving skills; must demonstrate sound judgment and good decision-making. Ability to perform DNA extraction, Western Blotting, and ELISA, along with tissue transfers under a BSL2 hood. Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors, and customers face-to-face.

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


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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


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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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COVID Vaccination


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Case Western Reserve University has implemented a COVID Vaccination policy requiring evidence of COVID-19 vaccination for all students, faculty and staff with an on-campus presence. Religious and medical exemptions may be provided in accordance with applicable federal and state laws. For more information go to: https://case.edu/equity/covid-19-accommodations. Applicants may contact the Office of Equity at 216-368-3066 /equity@case.edu for information regarding religious or medical exemptions as an accommodation.

Keywords: Case Western Reserve University, Strongsville , Senior Research Assistant, Other , Strongsville, Ohio