Research Associate

Description Date: January 2026 Title: Research Associate Department: Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, 698240 School: Medicine Location: Biomedical Research Building, 5th floor Supervisor Name and Title: Shahla Bari, Assistant Professor GU Oncology POSITION OBJECTIVE The Bari Lab is an ambitious and rapidly developing research group focused on microbial metabolomics, immune-microbiome crosstalk, and therapy resistance in cancer, with a strong emphasis on clinical translation. We integrate metabolomics, microbiome science, immunology, and AI-driven discovery to develop biomarkers and therapeutic strategies that meaningfully improve patient outcomes. Our work is deeply translational, leveraging clinical trials, patient samples, and mechanistic studies to build a microbiome-metabolite-based biomarker panel for predicting response to immunotherapy and targeted therapies. We are also developing strategies to therapeutically target microbial metabolic pathways to enhance anti-tumor immunity. We are seeking a highly motivated, experienced, and exceptionally responsible Research Associate who is passionate about building something new-and who thrives in a setting that offers greater independence, broader responsibility, and significant room for scientific growth. As a new lab led by a physician-scientist oncologist, we operate differently from large established research groups. For the right candidate, this position offers an unparalleled opportunity to: Take ownership of projects Shape the scientific direction of the lab Build systems, workflows, and infrastructure from the ground up Work closely with clinical datasets and patient samples Develop a trajectory toward scientific independence within 3-4 years With this independence comes responsibility: this role requires initiative, scientific rigor, excellent judgment, and the ability to troubleshoot, adapt, and move research forward without waiting for step-by-step instruction. Proficiency with mice work and wet lab is an absolute requirement. The candidate should demonstrate scientific acumen, initiative and be able to brainstorm roadblocks. Additionally the candidate will participate in clinical research including writing protocols , help in accrual, consenting for sample collection, and maintaining databases . We are willing to train the candidate in clinical research. The Research Associate will function as a key scientific lead in a growing translational oncology laboratory. This role requires someone who can independently plan, execute, troubleshoot, and complete experiments, while also helping establish core workflows for a new lab. The Research Associate is expected to take ownership of projects, anticipate needs, and maintain momentum even when the PI is attending to clinical duties. The position requires: High scientific judgment and independent decision-making Initiative, problem-solving, and the ability to navigate roadblocks Consistent follow-through and project completion Reliability, proactive communication, and mature time management The ability to balance laboratory and clinical research tasks A commitment to the pace and demands of translational science, which may not always fit within a traditional 9-5 schedule, given the needs of mouse studies, time-sensitive experiments, and clinical samples The Research Associate will also support and coordinate the work of other lab members, ensure that the PI is kept informed of project progress, and uphold a culture of rigor, accountability, and scientific integrity. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 1. Independently plan, perform, and optimize experiments involving PCR, Western blotting, flow cytometry, ELISA, microbiome sequencing, metabolite extraction, and other analytical techniques. Conduct all aspects of murine research (germ free, SPF, immunodeficient etc), including (but not limited to cell line culture, expansion, infections, tumor measurement and monitoring, oral gavage, euthanasia, tissue collection. Breeding, weaning, and colony management (25%) 2. Process human and mouse biological samples (blood, tumor, tissue, fecal pellets, single-cell suspensions). Perform fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) preparation (training available). Maintain accurate experimental records; analyze data and provide recommendations to the PI. Implement AI tools or computational approaches to improve efficiency, reproducibility, and workflow automation. Assist in adopting and developing new laboratory techniques; train other staff and students as needed. Guide junior team members in experimental design, troubleshooting, and scientific reasoning to ensure progress toward project goals (25%) 3. Conduct clinical research activities, consent patients, coordinate sample collection, and manage research-related communications. Process and document clinical samples according to protocol. Maintain accurate regulator and clinical documentation. Follow IRB, IACUC, and institutional guidelines. Participate in timely patient accrual and clinical protocol execution (20%) 4. Draft, revise, and manage IACUC and IRB protocols. Present research findings in lab meetings, seminars, and internal forums. Prepare figures, datasets, and analysis for manuscripts and grant applications. Independently drive first-author and collaborative projects to publication with a high standard of integrity and scientific rigor. Contribute to grant proposals by generating preliminary data and supporting documentation. Develop, revise, and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency and quality (20%) 5. Order reagents and maintain inventories, monitor supply levels and equipment functionality. Assist in general laboratory operations and maintenance. Train and mentor new staff, students, and rotating personnel in laboratory techniques, safety, practices, and research workflows. Coordinate required safety and compliance trainings with EHS and other institutional offices (5%) 6. Assist the PI in and independently develop new techniques and protocols. Train lab members on new techniques (5%) NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 1. Perform other duties as assigned (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 This position has no formal supervisory authority, but will play a key role in training, guiding, and overseeing lab staff, students, and interns. QUALIFICATIONS Education/Experience: Master's degree and a minimum of 5 years of directly related research experience required. Experience in hands-on in vivo mouse work and bench lab technique including ELISA, flow cytometry, and immunohistochemistry, PCRY, Western blot, etc is preferred. Or a PhD, MD, or other terminal degree in a relevant field with 1 or more years of experience required. Strong profiency in wet lab techniques and animal research is preferred. REQUIRED SKILLS 1. Technical expertise in vivo mouse research, including complex, long-duration experiments (e.g., tumor models, germ-free mice, gnotobiotic work, longitudinal collections). 2. Perform and trouble shoot a wide range of wet lab techniques (PCR, flow cytometry, ELISA, cell culture, sterile technique, sample processing, metabolite extraction, etc). 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. Include other computer skills or use of specific programs needed. 10. Animal research only: 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. Animal research only: 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. Animal Research only: 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 This is a research-intensive position that requires work within BSL-2 laboratory environments, core facilities, and animal facilities. The role involves handling biological specimens (human and mouse), infectious materials, chemicals, and laboratory equipment. The position requires comfort with working in environments that include: Animal research facilities, including germ-free and SPF mouse colonies Long, complex in vivo studies with time-sensitive procedures Laboratory equipment such as biosafety cabinets, centrifuges, cryogenic freezers, flow cytometers, etc. Exposure to standard laboratory hazards including chemicals, biological agents, and sharps (with all appropriate PPE provided) Because many experiments, particularly mouse studies-operate on biological and experimental timelines rather than strict business hours, certain procedures may occasionally require early mornings, evenings, or weekend work to maintain scientific integrity and animal welfare. This reflects the nature of translational and in-vivo research rather than an expectation of constant extended hours. Additional considerations: Mobility between buildings on campus and access to core facilities will be required. Occasional local travel for collaboration or sample collection may be necessary. Extended periods of standing, lifting cages or equipment up to ~25 lbs, and repetitive manual tasks may occur during experimental work. Strict adherence to PPE and biosafety protocols is mandatory. CWRU's animal facilities are AAALAC-accredited and follow all relevant federal and institutional standards (Animal Welfare Act, PHS Policy, SOM ARC SOPs, etc.). All personnel must maintain compliance at all times. 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 Education/Experience: Master's degree and a minimum of 5 years of directly related research experience required. Experience in hands-on in vivo mouse work and bench lab technique including ELISA, flow cytometry, and immunohistochemistry, PCRY, Western blot, etc is preferred. Or a PhD, MD, or other terminal degree in a relevant field with 1 or more years of experience required. Strong profiency in wet lab techniques and animal research is preferred. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement 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 . Determinations as to granting reasonable accommodations for any applicant will be made on a case-by-case basis.

Created: 2026-03-04