Senior Medical Researcher

Job Description
POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under limited supervision, coordinate research work in biomedical engineering. Responsible for collecting data related to speeding the development of therapeutic devices that control electrical activity in nerves to improve chronic medical conditions. The NIH contract-specifically to Reconstruct Vagal Anatomy (REVA)-will allow researchers to map the body's vagus nerve using the latest high-resolution imaging technology. The team's goal will be to show how nerve tracts in the vagus map to organs. The vagus nerves connect the brainstem to most organs in the torso, including the heart, lungs, pancreas, stomach and intestines, to control and sense the body's inner workings. Electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve has been used to treat epilepsy, rheumatoid arthritis and heart failure, among many other conditions.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Coordinate laboratory/ research activities. Embedding, sectioning, and staining tissues in the histology lab. (20%)
2. Work closely with the principal investigator. Compile analyses and data for monthly and quarterly reports to meet critical grant deadlines. (15%)
3. Carry out complex research assignments of a non-routine nature. Develop novel embedding and staining techniques to enhance microCT imaging contrast in neural tissues. (10%)
4. Devise new protocols and techniques for research projects involving a high degree of skill and training. Examples include developing procedures for operating custom-fabricated laboratory equipment that automates tissue sectioning and/or imaging. (10%)
5. Evaluate adequacy of techniques; study and test new procedures and analyzes data. Develop and perform quality control studies and including control slides for rigorous antibody-based staining methods. (10%)
6. Supervise students and technicians. Supervise undergraduate and graduate students and junior staff to learn histology techniques. (10%)
7. May co-author research projects. Prepare figures for conference and journal publications. (10%)
8. Monitor the laboratory budget. Review budget spreadsheets and determine a spending plan for budgeted supplies. (10%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Perform other duties as assigned. (5%)

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

May supervise students and technicians

QUALIFICATIONS

Experience: 3 to 5 years of related experience required.

Education/Licensing: Bachelor of Science degree required.

REQUIRED SKILLS

1. Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within biomedical engineering.
2. Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.
3. Ability to operate laboratory equipment.
4. Ability to meet consistent attendance.
5. Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors and customers face to face.
6. 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.
7. Must demonstrate compassion for animals within university facilities and dedication to the Animal Resource Center's mission. Must handle animals with care and respect at all times.
8. Must be able and willing to learn new techniques, procedures, processes, and computer gear to protect the health of the animals.
9. Previous experience working with animals preferred.

WORKING CONDITIONS

General laboratory environment. May have exposure to hazards.

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.

Diversity Statement
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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Reasonable Accommodations
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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COVID Vaccination
Case Western Reserve University has implemented a COVID Vaccination policy requiring evidence of COVID-19 vaccination for all students, faculty and staff with an on-campus presence. Religious and medical exemptions may be provided in accordance with applicable federal and state laws. For more information go to: https://case.edu/equity/covid-19-accommodations. Applicants may contact the Office of Equity at 216-368-3066 /equity@case.edu for information regarding religious or medical exemptions as an accommodation.