POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under general supervision, the Research Assistant 1 will perform research activities focused on discovering the impact on brain development of rat and mouse pups exposed to ethanol or bilirubin. The research assistant will support laboratory activities with the goal of exploring the effect of a choline deficient diet and subsequent choline supplementation on these impacts. This position will work with animals.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Perform research work in medical and related technical areas involves use of lab skills such as breeding of animals to provide pups for the laboratory. Assist in vitro and in vivo cell signaling experiments utilizing standard techniques and imaging. (25%)
2. Conduct analysis of samples. Assist in analyzing western blots, lipidomic and proteomic data, and image analysis. (25%)
3. Record results for a particular experiment or closely related series of experiments. Record results from experiments such as grip strength, USV, Plethysmography, and radial arm maze. Perform behavioral studies not limited to those currently outlined. (25%)
4. Maintain records of experiments. Maintain an up to date lab notebook. (10%)

5. Maintain test equipment utilized in experiments. Keep the apparatuses used for animal behavior experiments clean. (10%)

    

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Order laboratory supplies. Order choline deficient diets, choline chloride, and other diets as necessary. (5%)

2. Perform other duties as assigned. (<1%) 

    

CONTACTS

Department: Weekly contact with supervisor and other lab members to discuss research and maintain workflow. Weekly contact with Zoom Lab Group members at weekly meetings to discuss research and collaborate on work.

University: Occasional contact with other departments to share information.

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

Students: Regular contact with student employees to exchange information during weekly lab meetings.

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 within a particular field including tissue culture, cell signaling assays, western blots, confocal microscopy, immunohistochemistry. Knowledge of animal husbandry and behavioral tests is a plus.
2. Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. Updates and maintains laboratory protocols. 
3. Ability to operate laboratory equipment.
4. Must demonstrate compliance with Case Western Reserve University animal research and care (ARC) policies and procedures and compliance with regulations of the Animal Welfare Act, Public Health Service Policy, AAALAC guidelines and other applicable regulatory guidelines.
5. Must demonstrate compassion for animals within Case Western Reserve University facilities and dedication to the Animal Resource Center¿s mission. Must always handle animals with care and respect.
6. Must be able and willing to learn new techniques, procedures, processes, and computer gear to protect the health of the animals.
7. Previous experience working with animals preferred.
8. Ability to meet consistent attendance.

9. Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors and customers face to face.

    

WORKING CONDITIONS

General laboratory environment with chemical and biological hazards. Personal protective equipment, including lab coat, gloves and goggles, will be provided to limit exposure