Research Assistant 2, #9637
Case Western Reserve University

Job Info

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POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under general supervision, the Research Assistant 2 will plan and carry out research projects focusing on the movement of carbon dioxide (CO₂), oxygen (O₂), nitrogen (N₂) through the plasma membrane, including through protein channels in the membrane. In particular, the research assistant will focus on research projects studying the gas permeability of red blood cell (RBC) membranes. The research assistant will be primarily responsible for conducting experiments to isolate RBCs from blood collected from various mammalian species including mice, cows and humans. These will be used in stopped-flow experiments to determine O₂ or CO₂ permeability, Image Stream flow cytometry to determine size and shape, and measurements of the affinity of hemoglobin for oxygen. The research assistant will also make erythrocyte ghosts for proteomic and lipidomic mass spectrometry analyses. Other general responsibilities will include generating physiological solutions, supporting laboratory staff, and assisting with laboratory maintenance. This position will work with animals.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS.

1. Plan and carry out experiments under principal investigator supervision to quantify the transmembrane flux CO₂, or O₂ via aquaporins, Rhesus proteins, and other candidate gas channel proteins expressed in red blood cell membranes. (50%)
2. Conduct a series of experiments under principal investigator supervision, to prepare and submit erythrocyte ghost samples for submission to Mass Spectrometry cores for proteomic and lipidomic analyses. (15%)
3. Conduct experiments under principal investigator supervision to quantify the size and shape of red blood cells from different species, or from different strains of mice using Image Stream Flow cytometry. May assist in developing improved techniques, projection methods or procedures. (10%)
4. Perform statistical analyses to compare the results of the different experimental conditions. Generate figures and reports summarizing the experimental findings. (10%)
5. Oversee inventory. Maintain accurate and thorough records of experimental and other research data. (10%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Train new staff; direct the work of students. Perform other duties as assigned. (5%)

CONTACTS

Department: Daily contact with the principal investigator, instructors, postdocs, research associates and students within the research group to discuss research.

University: Regular contact with principal investigators or laboratory personnel in other research groups or core facilities to discuss research. Occasional contact with personnel in other departments when using shared laboratory to exchange expertise or information.

External: Limited contact with vendors to exchange information.

Students: Daily contact with students in the laboratory to instruct them in the use of equipment and/or make adjustments to procedures.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

This position has no direct supervision of staff employees. Train new staff and direct the work of students.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Experience: Bachelor's degree with a strong background in biology, physiology, biochemistry or a related field and 1 to 3 years of experience, or Associate's degree in an approved biotechnology program and 2 to 4 years of experience required.

REQUIRED SKILLS

1. Previous experience handling animals is preferred.
2. Prior experience drawing blood from rodents is preferred.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Strong organization skills and maintain a laboratory notebook, attention to scientific detail.
6. Ability to multi-task, prioritize and give attention to detail in order to complete tasks and meet deadlines.
7. Ability to effectively operate laboratory equipment.
8. Ability to problem-solve effectively and assist in the development and implementation of alternative solutions as needed. Must demonstrate good judgment and logical decision-making.
9. Ability to work effectively, both independently and collaboratively within a team.
10. Technical competence with software programs such as Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) and scientific graphics package (such as Origin) is strongly preferred. Ability to learn and apply software programs and applications as needed.
11. Ability to learn and apply new techniques, ideas, processes, policies, functions, etc. Must be highly motivated and a self-starter.
12. Ability to conform to shifting priorities, demands and timelines. Must be flexible in order to respond to project adjustments and alterations promptly and efficiently. Must be able to adapt to varying workloads and respond appropriately to stressful situations.
13. Excellent verbal and written communication skills; good interpersonal skills with the ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors and customers face to face.
14. Ability to meet consistent attendance.

WORKING CONDITIONS

The employee will be working in a laboratory environment with general chemicals and will need to take Chemical Safety Training. Required personal protective equipment includes a standard lab coat, gloves and safety glasses when appropriate.

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.

This job has expired.