Description
POSITION OBJECTIVE
Working under moderate supervision, perform research work in medical and related technical areas in the Cao Lab within the Department of Biomedical Engineering. The Research Assistant 1 will support a research program focused on developing and applying novel optical and ultrasound imaging technologies (such as photoacoustic microscopy) to investigate brain function, cancer cerebrovascular physiology, and neurological disease models. This position directly supports the lab's mission to advance biomedical imaging research and contributes to the broader mission of the Department of Biomedical Engineering and the School of Medicine. This position will work with animals. Please note this is a 1 year term position.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Perform research work in medical and related technical areas involves use of lab skills. Conduct lab experiments, including animal handling and husbandry, surgical preparation for in vivo imaging, sample preparation, and related biological techniques in support of ongoing research projects. Operate and assist in the setup of optical imaging systems (e.g., photoacoustic microscopy) for biological experiments under the guidance of the supervisor. (35%)
Conduct analysis of samples and support imaging device development. Perform computational analysis and processing of experimental data, including image reconstruction, quantitative image analysis, and signal processing using tools such as MATLAB or Python. Assist in the design, prototyping, and testing of optical imaging and photoacoustic device components, including hardware integration, system optimization, and performance characterization. (30%)
Record results for a particular experiment or closely related series of experiments. Summarize and present experimental outcomes, prepare figures and tables, and contribute to the preparation of written reports, manuscripts, and presentations summarizing research findings. (15%)
Maintain records of experiments. Maintain detailed and organized laboratory records, including electronic lab notebooks, experimental protocols, raw and processed data files, and backups. Follow good laboratory practices and ensure data integrity and reproducibility. (10%)
NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Maintain test equipment utilized in experiments. Perform routine maintenance, calibration, and basic troubleshooting of laboratory instruments and optical imaging systems. Coordinate with vendors or core facilities as needed to ensure equipment is in proper working condition. (5%)
Order laboratory supplies. Track inventory of consumables, reagents, and general laboratory supplies, and submit purchase requests through the department's purchasing process in a timely manner. (3%)
Perform other duties as assigned. (2%)
CONTACTS
Department: Daily contact with supervisor to discuss research and maintain workflow.
University: Occasional contact with other departments to share information.
External: Limited or no contact with vendors to exchange information.
Students: Contact with student employees to exchange information.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY
This position has no direct supervision of staff employees.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education/Experience: Bachelor's degree in science and 0 to 1 year of experience or Associate's degree in an approved biotechnology program and 0 to 2 years of experience required.
REQUIRED SKILLS
Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within biological techniques and image reconstruction.
Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.
Ability to operate laboratory equipment and signal processing using tools such as MATLAB or Python.
Willingness to learn and work with artificial intelligence (AI) tools and technologies.
Demonstrated history of 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, supervisors and customers face to face.
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.
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.
Previous experience working with animals preferred.
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
General laboratory and office environment. The position requires regular work in a biological research laboratory and an optical imaging laboratory. May have exposure to hazards typical of a research lab, including chemical reagents, biological samples, Class 3B/4 lasers (with appropriate safety training and protective equipment), and small research animals. This is an on-site, full-time position and is not eligible for hybrid or remote work. Occasional extended hours may be required to support time-sensitive experiments.
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 medical school 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.
