Research Associate at Case Western Reserve University

Position Description.

This is a key position in the Zhao Lab within the Department of Pathology at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. The successful candidate will plan and execute experiments in close collaboration with the Principal Investigator and will work closely with other PIs in Pathology and across the School of Medicine. Responsibilities include preparing manuscripts and contributing preliminary data, background/significance sections, and experimental designs for grant proposals.

The current focus is acute myeloid leukemia, with the goal of identifying novel molecular mechanisms that drive resistance to HSF1-targeted therapies. The work spans basic cell and molecular biology, immunology, biochemistry, cell culture, animal studies, and analysis of patient samples. Experience with mouse models and flow cytometry is required. The candidate should be able to work independently, critically evaluate the literature, assist in study design and project planning, and carry out research on assigned projects. Applicants are expected to apply for and secure relevant training fellowships.

Interested individuals should email a cover letter, CV, and the contact information for three references who can provide letters of recommendation to [email protected].  

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1.         Design, plan and carry out experiments in collaboration with PI. Provide assistance and work closely with staff, post-doctoral scholars and graduate students ensuring projects are being completed according to the research plan. Advise/Assist in developing improved techniques, project methods, or procedures. (50%)

2.        Oversee general lab operations including inventory, lab organization and maintain certain equipment/facilities. Must demonstrate compliance with policies, procedures and regulations of the Animal Resource Center, IACUC, Animal Welfare Act, Public Health Service Policy, AAALAC guidelines and other applicable regulatory guidelines for which essential training will be provided. (10%)

3.         Rigorously document experimental results and present results in laboratory meetings, departmental seminars and scientific conferences (10%).

4.         Prepare manuscripts and contribute preliminary data for grant proposals (10%).

5.         Work closely with other lab members to ensure projects are being completed according to the research plan and in organizing laboratory space and supplies. (10%)

6.         Perform/supervise rodent husbandry including breeding, genotyping and maintain an accurate animal database. (10%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1.    Perform other duties as assigned. (>1%)

CONTACTS

Department: Frequent contact with PI and lab members, may work with other faculty for collaboration of research projects, contact with administrative staff as needed

University: Regular/Occasional contact with other labs for collaboration, Regular/Occasional contact with the Animal Resource Center, Contact with other departments as needed        

External: Supply vendors, other institutions, funding agencies, etc. as needed

Students: Undergraduate and graduate student employees working in the lab

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

No direct supervisory responsibilities. Will train and provide oversight to lab staff and students.

WORKING CONDITIONS

General laboratory environment. May have exposure to biosafety level 2 hazards, such as chemicals, mammalian cells, bacteria used for plasmid DNA preparations, and viral vectors. This position will be in contact with live mice and mouse tissues. Biosafety and IACUC training in addition to basic lab standard training will be required.

Case'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.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

MD or PhD in Biomedical sciences with hands-on experience in immunology, molecular cell biology and animal work.

YEARS OF RELEVANT EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

MD or PhD with 0-3 years of research experience.

Required SKILLS:

1.     Ability to work both collaboratively and independently, following directions and protocols with precision.

2.     Capacity to work independently after receiving essential training.

3.     Strong data collection and analysis skills with close attention to detail; ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

4.     Excellent organizational skills, including the ability to prioritize, meet deadlines, and follow through on assigned tasks with accuracy.

5.     Experience in cell culture of primary mouse and human hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells.

6.     Proficiency in immunology techniques, particularly multi-parameter flow cytometry.

7.     Experience in molecular cloning and a range of molecular and cell biology techniques.

8.     Hands-on experience with animal models and related experimental procedures.

9.     Effective oral and written communication skills.

10  Flexibility in work schedule to ensure timely completion of studies.

11. Must demonstrate compliance with CWRU 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.

12. Must demonstrate compassion for animals within CWRU facilities and dedication to the Animal Resource Center’s mission.  Must handle animals with care and respect at all times.

14. Must be able and willing to maintain a high standard of personal cleanliness and utilize protective gear to protect the health the animals.

Qualified candidates should send their CV, cover letter, and three professional references to Dr. Chen Zhao ([email protected] ).