Health Care Researcher

POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under moderate supervision, perform research work in biomedical and related technical areas involving the use of lab/ research skills. The focus of the research is to develop a clinically viable method of blocking nerve conduction using kilohertz frequency alternating current (KHFAC) and direct current (DC).   The research assistant will be responsible for maintaining the lab including the animal lab, helping with experiments, helping with data collection, keeping records, and ordering all lab supplies. This position will work with animals.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Perform research work in biomedical engineering involving the use of lab/ research skills. This involves setting up animal experiments, inducing and monitoring anesthesia and conducting experiments along with PIs and other research staff. Experimental duties will include running hardware, computers, and data capture software. Record results for assigned experiments. (40%)
2. Perform basic data analysis and annotation of experimental data. (10%)
3. Maintain test equipment utilized in experiments including instrument cleaning, packaging, sterilization, and setup. (9%)
4. Conduct analysis of samples in the form of electrode bench testing. (10%)
5. Order general laboratory supplies for the animal lab and keep records of all orders. (20%)
6. Keep up with all training requirements for Case Western, MetroHealth and the Animal Resource Center (6%).

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Maintain and backup records of experiments by scanning lab notebooks and on external hard drives and uploading to Box Cloud Storage in a timely manner. (5%)
2. Perform other duties as assigned. (<1%)

CONTACTS

Department: Daily contact with supervisor to discuss research, plan tasks and maintain workflow. Weekly meetings with the whole research group as well as individual principal investigators.

University: Occasional contact with other departments to share information.

External: Limited contact with vendors to exchange information for specific ordering issues.

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 

1. Basic computer skills. Knowledge of Word and Excel is required.
2. Ability to operate basic laboratory equipment.
3. Ability to meet consistent attendance.
4. Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors, and other research staff face to face.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. Previous experience working with animals preferred.
8. Must be able and willing to learn new techniques, procedures, processes, and computer gear to protect the health of the animals.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Employee is directly exposed to animal experiments (including animal surgeries) and isoflurane / halothane anesthesia. The employee will be provided a laboratory coat and disposable gloves for some tasks. The employee may be required to work some weekends (less than 2 hours per day).

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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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.