Research Assistant 1

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.
POSITION OBJECTIVE
Working under moderate supervision, the Research Assistant 1 will perform research work supporting chemical biology and chemical proteomics research in the laboratory. This role supports research focused on small-molecule ligands and protein function in cancer and immunology-related systems. This position will not work with animal models or animal-derived samples.
Essential Functions

• Perform routine biochemical and/or cell-based experiments using established laboratory protocols, including cell culture support, protein/biochemical assays, and sample preparation for downstream analysis. Assist with established experimental workflows under the direction of the principal investigator or senior lab personnel. (25%)
• Prepare reagents, buffers, cell culture materials, and experimental samples; assist with routine ligand-engagement and proteomics sample-preparation workflows according to written protocols and principal investigator instructions. (15%)
• Conduct analysis of samples and collect, organize, and record results for specific experiments or closely related series of experiments. (20%)
• Maintain detailed and organized experimental records, sample inventories, data files, and laboratory databases to support reproducibility and compliance. (15%)
• Maintain laboratory supplies and test equipment, track inventory, order routine supplies, basic equipment care, and report maintenance or safety issues to the principal investigator. May assist with routine purchasing records by organizing supply requests, receipts, and inventory information, and alerting the principal investigator to supply needs or purchasing issues. (17%)

Nonessential Functions

• May assist with basic data summaries, quality checks, and preparation of simple tables or figures for internal laboratory discussion. (5%)
• Participate in lab meetings, seminars, and training activities. (2%)
• Perform other duties as assigned. (1%)

CONTACTS
Department:
Frequent interaction with principal investigator and lab members to receive instructions, report progress, and coordinate routine laboratory tasks.
University:
Occasional interaction with core facilities under principal investigator direction.
External:
Occasional interaction with vendors for routine supply orders or technical support.
Students:
Occasional interaction with undergraduate or graduate trainees in the laboratory.
Supervisory Responsibilities
No supervisory responsibilities. May demonstrate routine laboratory procedures to students or new lab members after appropriate training and under principal investigator direction.
Qualifications
Education/

Experience:

Bachelor s degree in related field and 0 to 1 year of relevant laboratory research experience or Associate s degree in an approved biotechnology program and 0 to 2 years of experience required.

Experience with cell culture, protein assays, or basic biochemical techniques preferred.
Required Skills

• Basic laboratory skills in molecular biology, biochemistry, chemistry, or cell biology, with willingness to learn new techniques. Strong organization, communication, and teamwork skills.
• Willingness to learn and work with artificial intelligence (AI) tools and technologies.
• Ability to demonstrate 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 and customers face to face.

WORKING CONDITIONS
Work is performed primarily in a laboratory environment with exposure to biological and chemical hazards. May involve handling cell lines, chemical…