Research Associate (Laboratory Research) 224 - SOM

Date: November 2021

Title: Research Associate (Laboratory Research), 224

Department: Pathology

School: Medicine

Location: Wolstein Research Building, Room 5104

Supervisor Name and Title: Allison Kraus, PhD, Assistant Professor

POSITION OBJECTIVE

The Kraus lab studies the protein seeds, including self-propagating misfolded proteins, of neurodegenerative diseases (i.e. Alzheimer’s disease, Lewy body dementias, and prion diseases). We use ultrasensitive diagnostic tests (RT-QuIC), cryo-electron microscopy, cellular, and animal models to understand the structural underpinnings and biological mechanisms that contribute to the formation and accumulation of neurodegenerative disease-associated protein seeds. Under guidance of the principal investigator (PI), the Research Associate is expected to work independently, carry out development of diagnostic RT-QuIC assays, oversight of sample and reagent inventories, protocol development, oversee collaborations, and training of staff, postdoctoral fellows, graduate and undergraduate students in the lab. The Research Associate will design and plan projects in neurodegenerative diseases and RT-QuIC technologies to support ongoing research in the Kraus laboratory. The Research Associate will present data and findings at lab and scientific meetings, prepare manuscripts, and contribute preliminary data for grant proposals.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 

1. Plan and execute experiments for research projects designed by the principal investigator and will also design experiments independently and in collaboration with the PI. Assist with and coordinate experiments performed by other lab members, ensuring adequate resources, assisting with experimental design and analysis. Oversee progress of the research projects and provide regular progress reports to the PI; and provide input and recommendation to principal investigator regarding significant developments in research projects. Ensure the PI is informed about the results of lab members, and ensure the PI’s experimental strategy is explored by lab members and through independent experiments by the Research Associate. (40%)
2. Conduct experiments to supply scientific information as part of a larger project. Studies involve but are not limited to all aspects supporting development and implementation of diagnostic biomarker assays for neurodegenerative diseases, including but not limited to Alzheimer’s disease, Lewy body dementias, other tauopathy and synucleinopathy diseases as well as prion diseases. (5%)
3. Assist the PI in and independently develop new techniques and protocols. Train lab members on new techniques. (10%)
4. Mentor and train lab staff and graduate students; oversee research work and ensure projects are being completed according to the research plan. This will involve teaching other members of the lab techniques and scientific discovery methods, including students and post-docs. Assist and teach both established and new research techniques to other lab members to facilitate their experiments. Coordinate trainings for lab members with the EHS and others, as needed. (10%)
5. Present data and findings at laboratory meetings and scientific meetings, seminars, etc. Prepare manuscripts, and contribute preliminary data for grant proposals. (5%)
6. Independently author research projects. Assemble data and make publication-quality figures from analyzed data. With the highest level of integrity and responsible conduct of research, participate in writing manuscripts as a first author and co-author for discoveries from research performed in the lab, together with the PI and other lab members. (10%)
7. Assess, update, and develop new standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the lab. (5%)
8. Will supervise research assistants and technicians. Supervise the research and technical work performed by other lab members, ensuring proper lab procedures are followed, and their safety, and ensuring adequate resources are provided for lab work. (5%)
9. Operate and maintain laboratory equipment related to protein purification, RT-QuIC assays, microscopy, and other general lab equipment. Assist other lab members with general lab maintenance and help oversee and maintain inventory of scientific reagents. (5%)
10. Maintain accurate records of data and provide findings and recommendations to the PI based on analysis. (5%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Perform other duties as assigned. (<1%)

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 contact with other labs for collaboration, 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

No direct supervisory responsibilities. Will train and provide oversight to lab staff and students.

QUALIFICATIONS 

Experience: Minimum of 3 years of related postdoctoral experience required. Experience in preferred field(s) of study required. 

Education/Licensing: PhD in biomedical sciences 

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS and ABILITIES 

1. Knowledge and understanding of commonly-used procedures within the field of protein biochemistry, molecular biology and other related technologies. Expertise in RT-QuIC and protein purification required.
2. Experience working with animal and human tissues required. 
3. Excellent analytical skills; ability to formulate findings and recommendations from the analysis. 
4. Excellent oral and written communication skills and interpersonal skills; must demonstrate the ability to effectively and professionally communicate and work with various individuals within and external to the University.
5. Strong organization skills; ability to multi-task, prioritize, and meet deadlines.  Must demonstrate attention to detail and accuracy, time management skills, and follow-through. Must be able to work under pressure and conform to shifting priorities, demands, and timeline.    
6. Effective leadership skills; ability to lead, train, work with, and elicit cooperation from team members and staff.  
7. Ability to work effectively independently and collaboratively within a team.  Must be highly motivated, responsible, dependable, and a self-starter. 
8. Effective problem-solving skills; must demonstrate innovation and creativity, sound judgment, and good decision-making.  
9. Good computer skills, including database management. Ability to learn new programs as needed. 
10. Must demonstrate compliance with CWRU animal research and care (ARC) policies and procedures and compliance to regulations of the Animal Welfare Act, Public Health Service Policy, AAALAC guidelines and other applicable regulatory guidelines.
11. Must demonstrate compassion for animals within CWRU facilities and dedication to the Animal Resource Center’s mission.  Must handle animals with care and respect at all times.
12. Must be able and willing to maintain a high standard of personal cleanliness and utilize protective gear to protect the health the animals.

WORKING CONDITIONS 

Biosafety level 2 (BSL2) and general (BSL1) laboratory work. 

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” appropriate Federal Animal Welfare Regulations, and the Public Health Service “Policy 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.

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.

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.

HOW TO APPLY

Send inquiries containing a cover letter, CV with a list of publications and contact information for three references to references to Allison Kraus at alk127@case.edu.