Job Information
Case Western Reserve University Senior Research Assistant 1 in Cleveland, Ohio
POSITION OBJECTIVE
Working under general supervision, the Senior Research Assistant 1 will carry out research work in biophysics/applied physics and related technical fields. The senior research assistant's main responsibility will be improving the design of a motorized stretcher device compatible with a microscope setup. This position will work and collaborate with postdoctoral researchers, graduate, and undergraduate students in the lab along with off-campus collaborators and participate in maintaining a strong lab culture within the research group. The senior research assistant will support the lab's goals to develop new high-resolution microscopy methods for biophysics.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Carry out experiments in physics and related technical areas according to specific instructions to improve the design of a motorized stretcher device compatible with a microscope setup, including CAD design, microscopy, and electronics. Assist with planning experiments and maintaining stable cell lines by following aseptic techniques and preparing biophysical samples to be used with the stretcher device. (30%)
- Collaborate with lab staff and principal investigator to conduct a series of experiments to supply scientific information as part of a larger project. May conduct specific experiments and tasks independently. Organize samples and analyze data to contribute to large projects. Provide interpretation of data and suggest potential improvements to techniques and procedures. Design and machine engineered devices in makerspace/machine shop utilizing laser cutting, 3D design software and printing, electronic circuits, Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and the metal shop. Test and iteratively improve the engineered design in collaboration with several other researchers. (25%)
- Maintain records and record results of designs and experiments electronically and with clear and organized notebooks of device performance. (25%)
- Attend, participate, and collaborate in meetings with other lab researchers and collaborators. Generate data and text for progress reports. Keep the principal investigator informed on progress of research projects on a weekly basis. May assist in training new staff and students in lab operations and maintenance. (10%)
Manage laboratory supplies, reagents, and maintain chemical inventory in compliance with Environmental Health and Safety. Submit orders as requested. Maintain certain equipment and/or facilities. (9%)
NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Perform other duties as assigned. (1%)
CONTACTS
Department: Moderate contact with supervisor to discuss research and maintain workflow.
University: Infrequent contact with other departments to share information.
External: Occasional with vendors to exchange information and order supplies.
Students: Frequent contact with student employees to exchange information.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY
This position has no direct supervision of staff employees. May direct the work of students.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education/Experience: Bachelor's degree in physics, biophysics, bioengineer/biomedical engineering, or related field and at least 6 months of experience, or Associate's degree in an approved biotechnology program and at least 1 year of experience required.
REQUIRED SKILLS
Proficiency in AutoCAD Inventor or similar CAD software is necessary. Experience using ImageJ, MATLAB, or Python coding language is a plus.
Must be experienced with CAD or other 3D design software, electronic circuits, Arduino, and Raspberry Pi.
Knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within the field of applied physics and makerspace/machining.
Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the func