Junior Medical Scientist

POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under moderate supervision, the Research Assistant 1 will perform research work and support scientists by performing standard neurobiology techniques, animal work, tissue processing, immunohistochemistry, microscopy imaging, stereotactic viral injection, lab supply ordering and general lab maintenance. The research assistant will also collect, verify, record, and compile data and information related to the ongoing research carried out in the lab to investigate hippocampal circuit function in vitro and in vivo. This position will work with animals.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Perform research work using standard techniques in neurobiology, including, but not limited to: mouse genotyping, cardiac perfusion, brain sectioning, immunohistochemistry, biocytin staining, conventional fluorescence and confocal microscopy imaging, stereotactic viral injection, and mouse behaviors. (50%)
2. Conduct analysis of samples. Organize raw data and update lab-related data folders. Record results for a particular experiment or closely related series of experiments. (20%)
3. Perform mouse genotyping, mating, and colony maintenance. Organize mouse information and update in the database system. (6%)
4. Maintain clear and organized notebooks documenting procedures used and experimental data generated. Maintain accurate records in the database system of all animal samples. (6%)
5. Maintain test equipment and labware utilized in experiments. Perform routine lab maintenance. Dispose of biohazardous waste. (6%)
6. Order laboratory supplies, laboratory consumables and equipment. Maintain stock reagents and inventory as needed for certain experiments. (6%)
7. Assist the principal investigator to work with Case Western Reserve University’s Environmental Health and Safety department (EHS), and Animal Resource Center (ARC) on updating and maintaining lab protocols, and IACUC inspection. (6%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Perform other duties as assigned. (<1%)

CONTACTS

Department: Daily contact with supervisor and lab members to discuss research and maintain workflow.

University: Occasional contact with other departments to share information and collaborate on projects.

External: Limited or no contact with vendors to exchange information.

Students: Moderate contact with student employees to explain policies and procedures.

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. Has knowledge of commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures of neurobiology (e.g., PCR, genotyping, immunohistochemistry, microscope, and mouse behaviors).
2. Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.
3. Ability to operate laboratory equipment.
4. Ability to meet consistent attendance.
5. Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors, and customers face to face.
6. Must demonstrate compliance with Case Western Reserve University 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 Case Western Reserve University facilities and dedication to the Animal Resource Center’s mission. Must handle animals with care and respect at all times.
8. Must be able and willing to learn new techniques, procedures, processes, and computer gear to protect the health of the animals.
9. Previous experience working with animals preferred.
10. Strong organization skills and good habit of maintaining a clean lab working environment; demonstrate attention to detail and accuracy, time management skills, and proven ability to successfully follow through on assigned projects.
11. Professional and effective verbal and written communication skills and good interpersonal skills with the ability to work and communicate with various individuals within and external to the university.
12. Ability to work effectively independently and collaboratively within a team (must be highly motivated, responsible, dependable and a self-starter).
13. Ability to work with sensitive information and maintain confidentiality.
14. Proficiency in Microsoft Office is preferred. Experience using Adobe Illustrator, ImageJ, iMaris, and OriginPro is a plus.
15. Must have the ability to maintain meticulous, complete, and easily retrievable laboratory data.
16. Must have the ability to willingly learn new techniques and procedures as needed, follow established protocols or laboratory procedures and request clarification if necessary.

WORKING CONDITIONS

General laboratory environment, including work with exposure to hazardous chemicals, potential bloodborne pathogens, and radioactive materials. Occasional heavy lifting required up 25 to 49 lbs. This position will work with animals and will deal with job hazards such as being around moving machinery, chemicals, fumes, dust, infectious agents, and being present in restricted areas. Personal protective equipment, including lab coat, gloves and goggles, will be provided to limit exposure to hazards.

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 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.