Research Associate II, Physiology & Biophysics

Case Western Reserve University:
School of Medicine (FAC/RA/RS):
School of Medicine - Main Campus (FAC/RA/RS):
Physiology and Biophysics (FAC/RA/RS) Location

Xin Qi Laboratory, Cleveland, Ohio

Aug 19, 2026

Date:
August 2026

Title:

Research Associate II (Laboratory Research)

Department:
Physiology and Biophysics

Supervisor Name and

Title:

Xin Qi, PhD., Professor and Chair of Department of Physiology and Biophysics

POSITION OBJECTIVE

The Department of Physiology and Biophysics at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine seeks a highly motivated Research Associate II to join the laboratory of Dr. Xin Qi. The Qi laboratory studies cellular and molecular mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases, develops peptide- and small-molecule therapeutics, and applies multi-omics approaches to identify disease biomarkers and pathogenic pathways.

The Research Associate II will work closely with the PI and research team to develop and work with human iPSC and organoid models, perform small-animal procedures and tissue processing, conduct and troubleshoot experiments, collect and analyze data, and support collaborative projects within and outside CWRU. The individual will independently conduct assigned cell culture and animal studies and may provide technical guidance to junior laboratory members.

Success will be measured by timely completion of research milestones, generation of rigorous and reproducible data, effective collaboration, and contributions to publications, grant applications, and the overall research mission of the laboratory

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• 1) Plan and execute research experiments designed by the Principal Investigator and independently develop experimental approaches in collaboration with the PI. Coordinate research activities with laboratory members and internal and external collaborators. (15%)
• 2) Monitor progress of assigned research projects under limited supervision and provide regular updates to the PI. Analyze experimental progress, troubleshoot problems, and provide recommendations regarding experimental design and next steps. Assist with coordination of day-to-day research priorities as directed by the PI. (10%)
• 3) Independently conduct and oversee experiments using human iPSC-derived neuronal and organoid models and animal models of neurodegenerative diseases. Studies include cell culture, small-animal procedures, tissue collection and processing, immunohistochemistry/immunofluorescence, Western blotting, ELISA, DNA/RNA isolation, PCR, biochemical assays, and microscopy. Maintain accurate records, analyze data, and communicate findings to the PI. (25%)
• 4) Develop, optimize, and validate experimental techniques and protocols, including methods related to iPSC/organoid culture, molecular and cellular assays, and animal studies. Troubleshoot technical problems and train laboratory members in established and newly developed techniques. (15%)
• 5) Provide technical guidance and training to research assistants, students, and other junior laboratory members as needed. Help ensure appropriate laboratory procedures, research quality, and safe laboratory practices. (5%)
• 6) Present research findings at laboratory meetings, scientific meetings, seminars, and other research forums. Contribute scientific data and experimental information to manuscripts, reports, and grant applications. (10%)
• 7) Analyze research data and prepare publication-quality figures. Participate in interpretation of findings and preparation of manuscripts as a first author or co-author, in collaboration with the PI and other laboratory members, while maintaining the highest standards of research integrity and reproducibility. (10%)
• 8) Develop, review, and update laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency, reproducibility, and compliance with established research practices. (5%)
• 9) Operate and maintain laboratory equipment used for cell culture, molecular biology, biochemical analysis, microscopy, and animal research. Assist with general laboratory organization, maintenance, and inventory of reagents, supplies, and research materials. (5%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• 1. Perform other duties as assigned.

N/A

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

May supervise research assistants and technicians. Will train and provide oversight to lab staff and students.

This position is not expected to have direct supervisory responsibility. The Research Associate II may train, mentor, and provide day-to-day technical oversight to research assistants,…