POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under general supervision in the Department of Nutrition of the Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, the Research Assistant 2 will plan and carry out research projects in mass spectrometry-based structural biology and related technical areas. This position will work to assist the accomplishment of research aims set forth in projects related to developing trifluoromethyl chemistry for structural analysis of proteins. The workflow includes the footprinting experiments, measurement/analysis of mass spectrometry data and presenting results to supervisor.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Plan and carry out projects in accordance with general plans. With the assistance of principal investigator and research assistant scientist, develop experimental plans for the research project to develop novel protein labeling and mass spectrometry methods based on radical activated trifluoromethylation based chemistries. Provide multiplex, high resolution labeling and mass spectrometry analysis workflows to maximize value and impact of protein footprinting studies. Keep an organized and thorough laboratory notebook accessible online to all principals involved in developing trifluoromethyl chemistry projects. (10%)
2. Conduct a series of experiments to supply scientific information as part of a larger project. Perform protein footprinting experiments including X-rays, photolysis box and benchtop chemical labeling of proteins; cleanup of labeled protein samples with routine methods; digestion with different proteases; prepare samples for mass spectrometry (MS) analysis (protein precipitation, C18 clean up, protein digestion). (30%)
3. May assist in developing improved footprinting techniques, projection methods or procedures when necessary. (6%)
4. Collect and analyze data. Work involves acquisition of mass spectrometry data; quantitative and qualitative analysis of labeling using mass spectrometry data; use of different software for data analysis; assemble data for presentation at the lab meetings and conferences. (40%)
5. Oversee inventory and order laboratory supplies. Required reagents and supplies will be communicated to the principal investigator via email so that they can be ordered in a timely manner. (6%)
6. Train new staff; direct the work of students. Occasionally direct the work of the student employees when necessary. (6%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Perform other duties as assigned. This may include assisting in the preparation of papers and annual reports. (2%)

CONTACTS

Department: Daily contact with supervisor and lab members to discuss research and maintain workflow. This may happen both in person as well as via zoom / email.

University: Infrequent contact with other departments to share information; if occurs it will happen within developing trifluoromethyl chemistry collaborations.

External: Limited or no contact with vendors to exchange information.

Students: Frequent contact with student employees to exchange information.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

This position has no direct supervision of staff employees. Train new staff; direct the work of students.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Experience: Bachelor's degree in science and 1 to 3 year of experience or Associate's degree in an approved biotechnology program and 2 to 4 years of experience required.

REQUIRED SKILLS

1. Knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within mass spectrometry and protein footprinting preferred.
2. Data analysis using graphing software like OriginLab and MS Excel.
3. Presentation skills with PowerPoint and good English writing skills.
4. Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.
5. Ability to operate laboratory equipment.
6. Ability to meet consistent attendance.
7. Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors and customers face to face.

WORKING CONDITIONS

General laboratory environment. May have exposure to hazards such as acetonitrile, acetone and methanol. Personal protective equipment, including lab coat, gloves and goggles, will be provided to limit exposure to hazards. Ability to travel to an annual meeting in USA to disseminate results related to trifluoromethyl chemistry project developments.

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.

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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.

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