POSITION OBJECTIVE
This is a key position within the lab and will be responsible for planning and executing experiments in close collaboration with the PI. The lab is working closely together with other PIs in Pathology and the School of Medicine, including collaborations with multidisciplinary teams. The qualified candidate will prepare manuscripts and contribute preliminary data, background, significance, and experimental design for grant proposals. Liu lab research focuses on neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Frontotemporal dementia (FTD), and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). The goal is to discover novel molecular mechanisms that could be targeted to develop new therapeutic approaches. Regulation of mitochondrial dysfunction, amyloid beta pathogenesis, tauopathy, and TDP-43 pathology are key areas of attention. The work will involve experimental techniques ranging from basic cell and molecular biology, immunology, biochemistry, to cell culture, animal studies, and patient samples. Experience with mouse models and primary neuron culture is required. The candidate will work independently and should be competent to read the literature, assist with the designing and planning of projects, and carry out research on the assigned project. Expected to apply for/secure training fellowships.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
1. Plan and execute experiments for research projects designed by the principal investigator and may 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. (25%)
2. Conduct experiments to supply scientific information as part of a larger project. Studies involve but are not limited to analysis of experiments ranging from basic cell and molecular biology, immunology, biochemistry, to cell culture, animal studies, and patient samples. Experience with mouse models and primary neuron culture is required. Maintain accurate records of data and provide findings and recommendations to the PI based on analysis (40%).
3. Assist the PI in and independently develop new techniques and protocols. Train lab members on new techniques (5%).
4. Mentor and train lab staff and graduate students; oversee research work and ensure pro jects 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 (5%).
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 (5%).
7. Assess, update, and develop new standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the lab (5%).
8. May 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 laboratory equipment such as PCR machine. Assist other lab members with general lab maintenance and help oversee and maintain inventory of scientific reagents (4%).
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/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
No direct supervisory responsibilities. Will train and provide oversight to lab staff and students.
WORKING CONDITIONS
General laboratory environment. May have exposure to hazards. The lab is an open floor plan
with abundant bench space. Ample desk space with computers are also provided. The lab is
equipped with one fume hood for storage of hazardous and non-hazardous materials. The cell
culture room is equipped with incubators, culture hood and microscope. May be required to use
personal protective equipment, including standard lab coat, gloves and safety glasses when
appropriate. The position may lift up to 24 lbs. This position will be in contact with live mice and
mouse tissues. Biosafety and IACUC training in addition to basic lab standard training will be
required.
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.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education/Experience: Ph.D in biological sciences with hands-on experience in Immunology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, and mouse work. Ph.D with at least 1 year of postdoctoral experience and demonstrated research ability in the form of lead author publications.
REQUIRED SKILLS
1. Strong skills in molecular biology and biochemical techniques, including PCR genotyping,
mammal cell culture, and Western blotting.
1. Strong skills in mouse breeding, care, sterile surgical techniques, tail snipping, mouse
tagging or tattooing, and mouse behavioral testing.
2. Excellent analytical skills; ability to formulate findings and recommendations from the analysis.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Effective leadership skills; ability to lead, train, work with, and elicit cooperation from team members and staff.
6. Ability to work effectively independently and collaboratively within a team.Must be highly motivated, responsible, dependable, and a self-starter.
7. Effective problem-solving skills; must demonstrate innovation and creativity, sound judgment, and good decision-making.
8. Good computer skills, including database management. Ability to learn new programs as needed.
9. 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.
10. 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.
11. Must be able and willing to maintain a high standard of personal cleanliness and utilize protective gear to protect the health the animals.
Case Western Reserve University is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are protected under federal and state laws and university policy from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin, protected veteran status, disability, age and genetic information.
Reasonable Accommodation Statement:
Case Western Reserve University complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act regarding reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact the Office of Equity by phone at 216.368.3066 or by email at equity@case.edu Determinations as to granting reasonable accommodations for any applicant will be made on a case-by-case basis.
