SALARY GRADE

Case Western Reserve University is committed to providing a transparent estimate of the salary for this position at the time of its posting. The starting wage rate is $17.65 per hour, depending on qualifications, experience, department budgets, and industry data.
Employees receive more than just a paycheck. University employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare, retirement plans, tuition assistance, paid time off, and a winter recess.

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

• Has knowledge of commonly used concepts, practices and procedures within the biological sciences. An understanding of developmental respiratory physiology would be advantageous.
• Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.
• Ability to operate laboratory equipment including microscopes and vibratomes for tissue sectioning.
• Demonstrated history of successful support, education, and advocacy for all students, aligned with the values, mission, and messaging of the university, while adhering to the staff policy on conflict of commitment and interest.
• Ability to meet consistent attendance.
• Ability to interact with colleagues and supervisors face to face.
• Must demonstrate compliance with 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.
• Must demonstrate compassion for animals within university facilities and dedication to the Animal Resource Center’s mission. Must handle animals with care and respect at all times.
• Must be able and willing to learn new techniques, procedures, processes, and computer gear to protect the health of the animals.
• Previous experience working with animals preferred. Research skills related to small animal handling (mice/rats) will be reviewed and evaluated by the Animal Resource Center.
• Knowledge and understanding of commonly-used concepts, practices and procedures associated with molecular techniques is also preferred (PCR, western blots, ELISA, immunohistochemistry)
• Strong organizational skills: ability to multi-task, prioritize and meet deadlines. Must demonstrate attention to detail and accuracy, time management skills and proven ability to successfully follow-through on assigned projects.
• 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.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively within a team. Must be highly motivated, responsible, dependable and a self-starter.
• Ability to work with sensitive information and maintain confidentiality.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (ex: Word, Excel, PowerPoint), database applications, and with internet navigation.
• Must be able and willing to maintain a high standard of personal cleanliness and utilize protective gear to protect the health of animals, co-workers and self.
• Must have the ability to willingly learn new techniques and procedures as needed, follow established protocols or laboratory procedures and request clarification if necessary.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Perform research work in medical and related technical areas involving use of lab skills. Perform standard molecular techniques (RNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, ELISA), animal work, tissue processing immunohistochemistry), in vivo and in vitro physiology studies, tissue culture work and general lab maintenance. Conduct animal exposures and collect tissues, serum, and lavage fluid. Perform standard experimental methods include using immunohistochemistry and confocal/fluorescent imaging or performing western blots, PCR, ELISA and/or other associated molecular techniques on collected samples. Assess in vivo and in vitro physiology. (50%)
• Complete duties related to animal husbandry (mice/rats), including feeding and general maintenance of animal enclosures and ensuring health and well-being of the animals. (15%)
• Maintain records of animal use and other experiments. This includes maintaining clear, accurate and complete lab notes/records in lab notebook and lab-related data folders. Organize raw data and provide data to laboratory members at weekly lab meetings. (12%)
• Maintain test equipment and perform routine lab maintenance including cleaning or autoclaving equipment and lab ware, stocking buffers and supplies, and disposal of hazardous waste as needed. (6%)
• Order reagents, animals, and other laboratory supplies. (6%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Participate in annual lab inspections and safety plan reviews, maintain general lab cleanliness and Environmental Health and Safety compliant chemical inventory. (5%)
• Opportunities to present findings to visiting professors, collaborators and at regional/national meetings. (3%)
• Perform other duties as assigned. (3%)