POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under general supervision the Research Assistant 2 will conduct projects within the aims of the laboratory's focus on the role of vitamin A and carotenoids in the functioning and maintenance of the retina and the adjacent retina pigment epithelium. The objectives of the research are to understand how ocular carotenoid homeostasis is maintained and regulated. Additionally, the role of carotenoids in the protection against abiotic stress will be studied in cell lines. The research assistant will utilize general molecular biology, cell culture, and biochemistry techniques, including DNA/RNA isolation, PCR, RT-PCR, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry in this research project. Additionally, lipid extraction and HPLC analysis of carotenoids and retinoids will be part of the projects. The research assistant will keep the principal investigator informed of the progress of the research project and discuss the experimental design and project plans with the principal investigator. The research assistant will also keep meticulous records of the generated data. This is a part-time, temporary position working 20 hours per week for one year.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Plan and carry out project in accordance with general plans which include maintaining plasmid stocks and expressing proteins of carotenoid metabolism in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. To provide management data and to plan and conduct experiments. To closely work with the principal investigator and other laboratory personnel to ensure the smooth operation of the protein expression and chromatographic operations (HPLC and FPLC) of the laboratory. (20%)
2. Perform general molecular biology, cell culture and biochemistry techniques, including transformation, DNA/RNA isolation, cloning, mutagenesis of proteins, transfection, PCR, RT-PCR, maintenance of cell lines, HPLC, bioassays, protein purification according to developed methods, cryo-sections and immuno-histochemistry. (20%)
3. Performing experiments that enzymatically and biochemically characterize enzymes BCO1 and BCO2. (15%)
4. Performing cell culture experiments that pertain to carotenoid metabolism and homeostasis. (10%)
5. Collect and analyze data. Interpret data from individual experiments, develop an analysis, and discuss the results as they relate to the larger sets of experiments. May assist in developing improved techniques, projection methods or procedures, of experimental protocols, this will involve troubleshooting and modifying experimental protocols as needed with supervisory input. (10%)
6. Maintaining laboratory infrastructure and laboratory records. Make inventory lists of reagents produced in the lab. (10%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCITONS

1. Assist in issues related to the research as needed, including the performance of additional assays, and maintain the lab records. Train new staff; direct the work of students in lab protocols and provide help as needed in other areas. (5%)
2. Participate in laboratory meetings and journal clubs. It is also expected to attend weekly departmental and Vision Research Community seminars. Participation in the annual departmental retreat is required. (5%)
3. Perform other duties as assigned. (5%)

CONTACTS

Department: Frequent contact with the principal investigator and others in the lab. Contact with other members of the Department as needed.

University: Occasional contact with other research areas or administrative offices as needed.

External: Occasional contact as needed for ordering information and follow-up, technical representatives, etc.

Students: Frequent contact with students working in the laboratory and in the Department.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

This position has no direct supervision of staff employees.

QUALIFICAITONS

Education and experience: Bachelor's degree and 1 to 3 years of related experience or Associate's degree in an approved biotechnology program and 2 to 4 years of experience

REQUIRED SKILLS

1. Practical knowledge of methodology of research conducts. Strong organizational skills: ability to multi-task, prioritize and meet deadlines. Must demonstrate attention to detail and accuracy, time management skills, and follow-through.
2. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, the ability to work in a diverse and international environment.
3. Proficiency in statistical data analysis.
4. Practical experience in extraction, separation, and identification of active compound from natural resources, high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), practical knowledge of chemistry and handling of lipids with special emphasis to retinoids and carotenoids.
5. Practical ability to perform the following biochemical techniques: Western blot, RT-PCR, protein and RNA purification, enzymatic activity assays.
6. Immunohistochemistry: immunofluorescence (IF).
7. Cell culture techniques, maintenance of cell lines.
8. Ability to work with sensitive information and maintain confidentiality.
9. Effective problem-solving skills; must demonstrate excellent analytical skills, sound judgment and good decision-making.
10. Proficiency in Microsoft Office (ex: Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and database management.
11. Ability to meet consistent attendance.
12. Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors, and customers face to face.

WORKING CONDITIONS

The employee is directly exposed to the following hazards in the work environment: Chemicals, commercial products (oil, cleaning solvents), UV light, repetitive motion. The ability to lift 15 lbs. The employee will need to wear appropriate protective equipment such as gloves, sleeves, and lab coat. Travel requirements: Employee will be required to drive while on the job; Employee will transport universal waste (biological samples, tissue, animals, contaminated equipment).

This is a Term position. They are treated like regular staff positions for medical and dental benefits eligibility, vacation, holidays, and sick time. Term employees are not eligible for life insurance, retirement, long term disability, short term disability, tuition assistance, layoff status, or severance pay. Staff in term positions are also subject to the performance management review process and positive corrective action when work performance or behavior is unsatisfactory or unacceptable. Term employment does not alter the employment-at-will employee status of these employees.

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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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