Description

POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under general supervision, plan and carry out research project in accordance with general plans. Research Assistant 2 will support the clinical laboratory and research activities for the National Prion Surveillance Lab (NPDPSC) dedicated to diagnostic and research work on prion diseases. The research assistant will facilitate ongoing specimen accessioning, tissue bank management, laboratory inventory management and specimen processing. In addition, the research assistant 2 may cross train and acquire proficiency in other NPDPSC areas, including research and diagnostic testing and other areas as assigned.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Plan and carry out project in accordance with general plans. Accessioning projects in accordance with general regulatory requirements. Accession samples accurately in a BSL2 lab. Handle prion infected specimens and evaluate them for testing viability in a timely manner. Match received specimen paperwork with coordinating specimen label(s) for accuracy. Identify and report discrepancies immediately. (25%)
Conduct a series of experiments to supply scientific information as part of a larger project. Prepare, evaluate samples to relevant lab staff, including genetic DNA extraction, CSF, histology and Western Blot testing. Document all correspondence and input information in database. Handle specimen verification calls to the sender or referring physician to verify how the sample was treated and any other knowledge deemed necessary. (25%)
May assist in developing improved techniques, projection methods or procedures. Coordinate and facilitate the transfer of research samples between the university and other institutions ensuring all applicable policies are adhered to. May assist in managing CDC import permits. Authorize all shipping and slide picture requests, including receiving and exporting of materials. Obtain hazardous shipping certificate. (20%)
Collect and analyze clinical data (test requisitions) and record keeping support with high level data entry and by implementing quality data controls. Specimen processing of all clinical lab specimens and accession autopsy tissue when received at the NPDPSC. Prepare clinical reports and update patient clinical history. Link relevant documents and perform secondary data review. (20%) 
 

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Train new staff; direct the work of students. May train new laboratory accessioning technicians and student employees and occasionally direct the work of student employees when necessary. (4%)
Oversee inventory. Oversee supply inventory of shipping material and place orders in a timely manner. (5%)
Perform other duties as assigned. (1%)
 

CONTACTS

Department: Daily contact with the laboratory manager of the center and other members of the NPDPSC leadership team. 

University: Occasional contact with faculty and staff in the School of Medicine, University Hospital Department of Medicine and numerous support and service departments in University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve University. 

External: Limited contact with suppliers of laboratory products and supplies.

Students: Contact with student employees. 

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

This position has no direct supervision of staff employees. Train new staff; direct the work of students. 

QUALIFICATIONS

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 

Must be extremely well organized and capable of setting priorities while maintaining consistent attention to accuracy and quality.
Must show great transparency in work and be able to create SOP¿s as necessary for work functions and protocols. Must keep exceptionally accurate and easily retrievable records.
Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within the field of chemistry and biology.
Must be motivated to explore and learn new laboratory techniques and must be able to teach laboratory techniques to other technicians.
Ability to work under pressure, multi-task, and be a team player.
Punctuality and good attendance required. Ability to meet consistent attendance. 
Must be able to manage specimen storage for permanent tissue bank
Ability to operate laboratory equipment.
Excellent oral and written communication skills and interpersonal skills; must demonstrate the ability to effectively and professionally communicate and work with various individuals from a broad spectrum of disciplines, technical and educational backgrounds within the department, school and university, and with individuals outside the university.
Good/strong organization skills; ability to multi-task, prioritize and meet deadlines. Must demonstrate attention to detail and accuracy, time management skills, and follow-through.
Ability to work with sensitive information and maintain confidentiality. 
Effective problem-solving skills; must demonstrate sound judgment and good decision-making. 
Ability to perform DNA extraction, CSF aliquoting, and urine aliquoting, along with tissue transfers under a BSL2 hood.
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 interact with colleagues, supervisors, and customers face to face.
Willingness to learn and work with artificial intelligence (AI) tools and technologies.
 

Working Conditions

Standard laboratory conditions with some hazardous chemicals. Special hazards include biohazardous (potentially infectious) human brain and cerebrospinal fluid and other bloodborne pathogens and chemicals. The following personal protective equipment required: appropriate gloves, protective eyewear, laboratory coat, and safety shoes. this postion does not allow for remote or hybrid work schedules