Job Description

Position Objective

Working under moderate supervision, the Research Assistant 1 will perform cryopreservation of mouse models and will perform other tasks in support of the gene editing team at the Case Transgenic and Targeting Facility of Case Western Reserve University\xe2\x80\x93a leader in creating gene-edited mouse models for basic research and for translation of novel therapeutic approaches. The research assistant will help prepare cryopreserve samples, ensure accurate documentation and inventory, and monitor and document the status of samples on a frequent and regular basis. The research assistant will assist the gene editing staff in the performance of activities including weaning and animal transport. This position will work with animals.

Essential Functions * Perform procedures in the core using laboratory and research skills. Cryopreserve mouse strains for clients of the core with meticulous, consistent and strict adherence to protocols and procedures. Inform client labs of cryopreservation procedures. Schedule cryopreservation with clients and core personnel. Maintain cryopreservation database records; ensure the accurate documentation of the mice cryopreserved. Locate and superovulate mice by intraperitoneal injection of hormones; set up and score matings of mice; handle mice and perform euthanasia. Collect and transport mouse tissues; dissect tissues and collect semen or embryos; conduct analysis of samples. Label and load straws and complete freezing protocol; transport samples. Manage liquid nitrogen freezer inventory; monitor and document freezer status. (50%)

• Assist the gene editing staff, with strict adherence to protocols. Purchase mice; order laboratory supplies necessary for completion of experiments using an in-house ordering system and restock inventory as needed; prepare and aliquot hormones and other reagents. Coordinate with facility staff, veterinary technicians, veterinarians, and IACUC inspectors; maintain compliance with regulations pertaining to laboratory chemical and biological safety, controlled substances, rDNA and animal use. Perform miscellaneous laboratory related duties. (35%)
• Maintain test equipment utilized in experiments to ensure that it is clean and fully functional. Report any equipment malfunction to principal investigator. (6%)

NonEssential Functions * Participate in staff meetings. (5%)

• Perform other duties as assigned. (4%)

CONTACTS

Department/Core: Daily contact with core staff to coordinate work. Weekly contact with core director to exchange information.

University: Occasional contact with researchers from other departments and centers across the university campus to maintain workflow.

External: Daily contact with clients to coordinate work. Weekly contact with administrators at affiliated institutions to manage purchases and invoicing. Limited contact with vendors regarding supply orders.

Students: Weekly contact with student employees to coordinate workflow.

Supervisory Responsibility

This position has no direct supervision of staff employees.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience: Bachelor\'s degree and 0 to 1 years of related experience or Associate\'s degree in an approved biotechnology program and 0 to 2 years of experience required.

REQUIRED SKILLS * Knowledge of commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures in biomedical research and animal models.

• Meticulously follows instructions, pre-established guidelines, protocols and policies to perform the functions of the job with consistency and accuracy.
• Ability to interact and communicate effectively with colleagues, supervisors, administrative and compliance staff, and customers face to face.
• Previous experience working with animals preferred.
• Must be able to work with mice. Must be able to physically handle animal cages located on both the upper and lower shelves of the animal caging racks.
• Must demonstrate compliance with university Animal Resource Center (ARC) and Institutional Animal Care and Use policies, procedures and protocols 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 Case Western Reserve University facilities and dedication to the Animal Resource Center\xe2\x80\x99s mission. Ability to handle animals with care and respect at all times.
• Must be able and willing to learn new techniques, procedures, and processes to protect the health and welfare of the animals.
• Ability to meet consistent attendance standards.

Working Conditions

General laboratory environment. May have exposure to hazards. The employee will be expected to adhere to all required certification for laboratory work and adhere to all safety regulations including the use of personal protective equipment, standard lab coat, gloves, and safety glasses when appropriate. Risks of occupational exposure include liquid nitrogen, chemicals, and mice during the performance of assigned duties. Must be able to physically handle animal cages located on both the upper and lower shelves of the animal caging racks.

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\xe2\x80\x9d appropriate Federal Animal Welfare Regulations and the Public Health Service \xe2\x80\x9cPolicy 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.

Diversity Statement

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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Reasonable Accommodations

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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COVID Vaccination

Case Western Reserve University has implemented a COVID Vaccination policy requiring evidence of COVID-19 vaccination for all students, faculty and staff with an on-campus presence. Religious and medical exemptions may be provided in accordance with applicable federal and state laws. For more information go to: https://case.edu/equity/covid-19-accommodations. Applicants may contact the Office of Equity at 216-368-3066 /equity@case.edu for information regarding religious or medical exemptions as an accommodation.

Case Western Reserve University