POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under moderate supervision, perform research work in lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulation and in vitro gene therapy experiments. The Research Assistant 1 will support the laboratory's mission of developing next-generation delivery systems for gene therapy. This position supports research aimed at developing effective non-viral gene therapies for serious lung diseases including cystic fibrosis and others. This position will work with animals.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Perform research work using lab skills; key responsibilities include high-throughput lipid nanoparticle synthesis and characterization, cell culture maintenance (including air-liquid interface cultures and other primary cell models), and conducting assays in cell models and mice to evaluate nanoparticle performance. Synthesize lipid nanoparticles using microfluidic mixing and characterize formulations by dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential measurement, and RNA encapsulation efficiency assays. Record results for experiments. Operate and maintain the lab's high-throughput LNP screening platform. (30%) 
2. Assist in analyzing LNP samples using cultured cell lines (e.g., HeLa, HEK293, 16HBE) and primary airway epithelial cells using via luciferase assays, flow cytometry, and fluorescence microscopy. (25%) 
3. Maintain detailed electronic lab notebooks documenting experimental procedures, formulation parameters, and results. Organize data using spreadsheet and graphing software to support manuscript preparation and lab meetings. (15%) 
4. Perform molecular biology tasks including molecular cloning, genetic construct design, plasmid preparation, RNA quantification, gel electrophoresis, and PCR. Assist with protein expression and characterization for novel delivery modalities. (15%)
5. Maintain laboratory equipment utilized in experiments including the microfluidic mixer, DLS instrument, plate readers, and cell culture hoods. Coordinate instrument calibration and service as needed. (6%)
6. Order laboratory supplies including reagents, consumables, and lipid stocks. Track inventory and coordinate with vendors. (6%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Perform other duties as assigned. (3%)

CONTACTS 

Department: Frequent contact with the principal investigator and lab members to discuss experimental progress, troubleshoot protocols, and coordinate research activities.

University: Occasional contact with core facilities (flow cytometry, imaging, genomics) and other departments to coordinate shared resources and exchange information.

External: Occasional contact with reagent and equipment vendors to obtain quotes, place orders, and resolve supply issues.

Students: Regular contact with graduate and undergraduate students in the lab to provide guidance on techniques and exchange information.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY 

This position has no direct supervision of staff employees.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Experience: Bachelor's degree 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 

1. Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures in molecular biology and biochemistry. 
2. Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. 
3. Ability to operate laboratory equipment including pipettes, centrifuges, plate readers, and cell culture hoods. Experience with DLS or microfluidic devices is a plus.
4. 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. 
5. Willingness to learn and work with Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools and technologies.
6. Ability to meet consistent attendance.
7. Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors and customers face to face.
8. Must demonstrate compliance with university 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.
9. Must demonstrate compassion for animals within Case Western Reserve University facilities and dedication to the Animal Resource Center's mission. Must handle animals with care and respect at all times. 
10. Must be able and willing to learn new techniques, procedures, processes, and computer gear to protect the health of the animals.
11. Previous experience working with animals preferred.

WORKING CONDITIONS

General laboratory environment. Routine work with biological materials (cell cultures, nucleic acids) and chemical reagents (ethanol, lipids, organic solvents). May have exposure to hazards associated with nanoparticle synthesis and cell culture work. Work with animal models (mice) may be required. Standard personal protective equipment including lab coat, gloves and goggles, will be provided to limit exposure to hazards. May have to occasionally go in on the weekend for cell culture maintenance.

Case Western Reserve University's animal facilities are accredited by the Association for the Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care (AAALAC) and are 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 the School of Medicine's 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.