Research Assistant 1

POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under moderate supervision, the Research Assistant 1 will perform research work involving the effects of dietary fructose on kidney function.  An objective of this position is to understand the renal mechanisms altered by dietary fructose that lead to salt-sensitive hypertension. This position will work with animals.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS  

1. Perform research work in medical and related technical areas involving the use of research skills. Measure renal function in live animals including blood pressure by plethysmography, urinary volume, urinary sodium excretion, and food and water consumption with direct supervision of the principal investigator or laboratory manager. Conduct analysis of samples. (30%)
2. Maintain lab animals on appropriate diets. (14%)
3. Perform routine, well-established experiments on cells and tissue with material provided by others in the laboratory under the direct supervision of the principal investigator or laboratory manager. Experiments include measurements of superoxide and nitric oxide, protein content, autofluorescene, and Western blotting. (20%) 
4. Perform animal surgery as required to complete experiments under direct supervision. Record results for experiments. (15%)
5. Maintain records of experiments. Keep an appropriate laboratory notebook. Maintain test equipment utilized in experiments. (10%)
6. Order laboratory supplies. Track supplies required for experiments, and notify laboratory manager when necessary. (6%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS  

Perform other duties as assigned. (5%)

CONTACTS  

Department: Daily contact with the principal investigator to discuss research progress, goals and time management. Regular contact with laboratory employees when collaborating to receive tissue for experiments.

University: None.

External: None.

Students: Frequent contact with laboratory student employees only when working on a common research project.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

This position has no direct supervision of staff employees.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Experience: Bachelor of science degree 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. Knowledge of commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures in chemistry and biology.
2. Ability to follow instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.
3. Effective communication skills. Good interpersonal skills; ability to work and communicate with individuals within the laboratory.
4. Previous experience working with animals preferred.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. Good organization skills.
8. Ability to meet consistent attendance requirements.
9. Ability to work in a changing environment, and conform to shifting priorities, demands and timelines.
10. Ability to adapt to varying workloads and respond appropriately to stressful situations.
11. Must be able to complete all training requirements as set by Case Western Reserve University and appropriate regulatory agencies.
12. Ability to learn how to operate standard laboratory equipment.
13. Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors and customers face to face.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Laboratory is located in a designated space within the School of Medicine. There are frequent interruptions and distractions. There is exposure to research specific chemicals and 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 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.