Research Assistant

Position Objective

Working under limited supervision, the Research Assistant 3 will coordinate research activities on projects related to cardiac contractile function. The research assistant will work closely with other lab members and focus on research involving the molecular biology of cardiac muscle contraction, performing a wide array of cellular and molecular biology experiments using gel electrophoresis, protein biochemistry, western blots, bacterial transformation and culture, high‑throughput small‑molecule screening, and other in vitro techniques.

The role will bridge the gap of understanding between structure and function in cardiac muscle physiology and will involve work with animals.

• Work closely with the principal investigator to coordinate research activities that characterize the roles of myofilament contractile proteins in the regulation of cardiac muscle contraction, including muscle mechanics setup with molecular reagents and/or cardiac tissues, and work with animal models and bacterial cells in the laboratory. (50%)
• Carry out general molecular biology, including design and implementation of cloning strategies, PCR, mutagenesis, gel electrophoresis, gel purification, plasmid preparation, bacterial transformation, protein biochemistry, bacterial culture, western blotting, and expression and purification of recombinant proteins, and small‑molecule screening using myosin ATPase assays. (20%)
• Devise new protocols and techniques for protein purification and binding studies that require a high degree of skill and training. Carry out complex experiments to characterize binding properties of recombinant and native contractile proteins with various ligands using a variety of molecular and biochemical methods, including co‑sedimentation assays, isothermal calorimetry, microscale thermophoresis, etc. (10%)
• Evaluate adequacy of biochemical techniques, study and test new procedures, collect and analyze data, maintain lab records, provide feedback on experimental design, and prepare and present research results in lab meetings. (10%)
• Assist in manuscript preparation and editing, and may co‑author research projects. (6%)

• May supervise students and technicians. (1%)
• Maintain equipment, prepare buffers/media/reagents, dispose of biohazardous waste, oversee inventory, standard operating procedures, and monitor laboratory budget. (2%)
• Perform other duties as assigned. (1%)

Experience: 3 to 5 years of experience required. Experience with molecular biology and protein biochemistry techniques such as cell culture, cloning, protein isolation, expression, and purification preferred.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in physiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related scientific field required.

• Knowledge of commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures in chemistry, physics, biochemistry, and molecular/cellular biology and in vivo cardiovascular function.
• Experience with computer programming and molecular dynamic simulation preferred.
• Able to perform various molecular biology techniques.
• Ability to follow instructions and pre‑established guidelines to perform the functions of the job with minimal supervision.
• Previous experience working with animals preferred.
• Must comply with Case Western Reserve University animal research and care (ARC) policies and procedures and 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’s mission.
• Strong organization skills, maintain a laboratory notebook, and attention to scientific detail.
• Ability to multi‑task, prioritize, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to effectively operate basic molecular and cellular biology laboratory equipment.
• Ability to problem‑solve effectively and assist in the development and implementation of alternative solutions.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Ability to learn and apply new techniques, ideas, and processes, and be a…