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Description
Date: August 2026
Title: Research Associate II (Laboratory Research)
Department: Physiology and Biophysics
School: Medicine
Location: Robbins building
Supervisor Name and Title: Xin Qi, PhD., Professor and Chair of Department of Physiology and Biophysics
POSITION OBJECTIVE
The Department of Physiology and Biophysics at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine seeks a highly motivated Research Associate II to join the laboratory of Dr. Xin Qi. The Qi laboratory studies cellular and molecular mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases, develops peptide- and small-molecule therapeutics, and applies multi-omics approaches to identify disease biomarkers and pathogenic pathways.
The Research Associate II will work closely with the PI and research team to develop and work with human iPSC and organoid models, perform small-animal procedures and tissue processing, conduct and troubleshoot experiments, collect and analyze data, and support collaborative projects within and outside CWRU. The individual will independently conduct assigned cell culture and animal studies and may provide technical guidance to junior laboratory members.
Success will be measured by timely completion of research milestones, generation of rigorous and reproducible data, effective collaboration, and contributions to publications, grant applications, and the overall research mission of the laboratory
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
1) Plan and execute research experiments designed by the Principal Investigator and independently develop experimental approaches in collaboration with the PI. Coordinate research activities with laboratory members and internal and external collaborators. (15%)
2) Monitor progress of assigned research projects under limited supervision and provide regular updates to the PI. Analyze experimental progress, troubleshoot problems, and provide recommendations regarding experimental design and next steps. Assist with coordination of day-to-day research priorities as directed by the PI. (10%)
3) Independently conduct and oversee experiments using human iPSC-derived neuronal and organoid models and animal models of neurodegenerative diseases. Studies include cell culture, small-animal procedures, tissue collection and processing, immunohistochemistry/immunofluorescence, Western blotting, ELISA, DNA/RNA isolation, PCR, biochemical assays, and microscopy. Maintain accurate records, analyze data, and communicate findings to the PI. (25%)
4) Develop, optimize, and validate experimental techniques and protocols, including methods related to iPSC/organoid culture, molecular and cellular assays, and animal studies. Troubleshoot technical problems and train laboratory members in established and newly developed techniques. (15%)
5) Provide technical guidance and training to research assistants, students, and other junior laboratory members as needed. Help ensure appropriate laboratory procedures, research quality, and safe laboratory practices. (5%)
6) Present research findings at laboratory meetings, scientific meetings, seminars, and other research forums. Contribute scientific data and experimental information to manuscripts, reports, and grant applications. (10%)
7) Analyze research data and prepare publication-quality figures. Participate in interpretation of findings and preparation of manuscripts as a first author or co-author, in collaboration with the PI and other laboratory members, while maintaining the highest standards of research integrity and reproducibility. (10%)
8) Develop, review, and update laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency, reproducibility, and compliance with established research practices. (5%)
9) Operate and maintain laboratory equipment used for cell culture, molecular biology, biochemical analysis, microscopy, and animal research. Assist with general laboratory organization, maintenance, and inventory of reagents, supplies, and research materials. (5%)
NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
1. Perform other duties as assigned.
N/A
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
May supervise research assistants and technicians. Will train and provide oversight to lab staff and students.
This position is not expected to have direct supervisory responsibility. The Research Associate II may train, mentor, and provide day-to-day technical oversight to research assistants, technicians, students, and other junior laboratory members. The RAII may help coordinate research activities, provide guidance on experimental procedures, and ensure that appropriate laboratory and safety practices are followed, but will not have independent authority to hire, terminate, promote, discipline, or make other personnel decisions.
QUALIFICATIONS
Experience: 3 or more years of relevant experience, requiring technical, research and managerial skills at a level meeting or exceeding the requirements of a Research Assistant 4 in preferred field(s) of study preferred.
Education/Licensing: PhD, MD, or equivalent terminal degree in neuroscience, physiology, cell biology, molecular biology, biomedical sciences, or a closely related field.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS and ABILITIES
1. Strong technical skills in mammalian cell culture, including human iPSC culture and differentiation and tissue organoid models.
2. Strong technical skills in molecular, cellular, biochemical, and animal research methods, including Western blotting, PCR, immunofluorescence/immunohistochemistry, microscopy, tissue processing, small-animal handling, dosing, surgical procedures, perioperative care, and tissue collection.
3. Excellent analytical skills; ability to formulate findings and recommendations from the analysis.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. Effective leadership skills; ability to lead, train, work with, and elicit cooperation from team members and staff.
7. Ability to work effectively independently and collaboratively within a team. Must be highly motivated, responsible, dependable, and a self-starter.
8. Effective problem-solving skills; must demonstrate innovation and creativity, sound judgment, and good decision-making.
9. Good computer skills, including database management. Ability to learn new programs as needed
10. 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.
11. 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.
12. 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
Work is primarily performed in a laboratory and animal research environment. The position involves working with research animals, human iPSC-derived cells and tissues, biological specimens, chemicals, and other laboratory materials, with potential exposure to biohazards and chemical hazards. Appropriate personal protective equipment and compliance with laboratory safety, biosafety, and animal-care procedures are required.
The position requires routine handling of small animals, including animal husbandry, dosing, surgical procedures, perioperative monitoring, and tissue collection. Occasional early mornings, evenings, or weekends may be required to accommodate animal studies, cell culture, or time-sensitive experiments.
Case'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
Experience: 3 or more years of relevant experience, requiring technical, research and managerial skills at a level meeting or exceeding the requirements of a Research Assistant 4 in preferred field(s) of study preferred.
Education/Licensing: PhD, MD, or equivalent terminal degree in neuroscience, physiology, cell biology, molecular biology, biomedical sciences, or a closely related field.
"In compliance with the City of Cleveland's Pay Transparency Ordinance (effective October 27, 2025) the annual starting base salary range for this positon is is $62,000-$70,000. CWRU considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training. key skills, internal peer equity as well as market and organizational considerations when extending an offer. University employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare, retirement plans, tuition assitance and paid time off."
Application Instructions
https://apply.interfolio.com/