DescriptionPOSITION OBJECTIVE
The Center for Artificial Intelligence in Drug Discovery at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio is seeking a research associate to contribute to our core research focused on AI development for drug discovery, disease mechanism understanding, precision medicine and health outcomes research. More specifically, we are looking for a highly motivated candidate who can contribute to our research portfolio in developing novel AI algorithms and applying them to drug discovery and other biomedical discovery tasks. The candidate will have an opportunity to develop independent research goals within the scope of the larger projects, and will join a vibrant research team that includes a strong partnership among biologists, clinical and computer scientists.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
1. Plan and execute experiments for research projects designed by the principal investigator and may
design experiments independently and in collaboration with the PI. Assist with and coordinate
experiments performed by other lab members, ensuring adequate resources, assisting with
experimental design and analysis. Oversee progress of the research projects and provide regular
progress reports to the PI; and provide input and recommendation to principal investigator
regarding significant developments in research projects. Ensure the PI is informed about the results
of lab members, and ensure the PIs experimental strategy is explored by lab members and through
independent experiments by the Research Associate. (25%)
2. Conduct experiments to supply scientific information as part of a larger project. Studies involve but
are not limited to AI algorithm development and applications in biomedical discovery. Maintain accurate records of data and provide findings and recommendations to the PI based on analysis. (40%)
3. Assist the PI in and independently develop new techniques and protocols. Train lab members on
new technique. (5%)
4. Mentor and train lab staff and graduate students; oversee research work and ensure pro jects are
being completed according to the research plan. This will involve teaching other members of the lab
techniques and scientific discovery methods, including students and post-docs. Assist and teach
both established and new research techniques to other lab members to facilitate their experiments.
Coordinate trainings for lab members with the EHS and others, as needed. (5%)
5. Present data and findings at laboratory meetings and scientific meetings, seminars, etc. Prepare
manuscripts, and contribute preliminary data for grant proposals. (5%)
6. Independently author research projects. Assemble data and make publication-quality figures from
analyzed data. With the highest level of integrity and responsible conduct of research, participate in
writing manuscripts as a first author and co-author for discoveries from research performed in the
lab, together with the PI and other lab members. (5%)
7. Assess, update, and develop new standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the lab. (5%)
8. May supervise research assistants and technicians. Supervise the research and technical work
performed by other lab members, ensuring proper lab procedures are followed, and their safety,
and ensuring adequate resources are provided for lab work. (5%)
9. Operate laboratory equipment such as computer servers. Assist other lab members with general lab maintenance and help oversee and maintain inventory of scientific software and computers. (5%)
NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Perform other duties as assigned (
CONTACTS
Department: Daily contact with center faculty and staff.
University: Frequent contact with faculty, research staff, and other staff who are involved in assigned projects.
External: Occasional contact with outside consultants and representatives of funding entities.
Students: Daily contact with, or supervision of, students, especially those on projects that entail the above data sources.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY
None.
QUALIFICATIONS
- PhD degree in computer science, biomedical informatics and other related data science fields and a minimum of 5 years of related experience.
REQUIRED SKILLS
- Strong background in computer science and AI algorithm development for biomedical discovery.
- Demonstrated skill in developing novel AI algorithms (e.g., machine learning, deep learning, large language models, knowledge graphs) and applying them to drug discovery and other biomedical discovery tasks, such as disease mechanism understanding, precision medicine, and health outcomes research.
- Track record of peer reviewed publications related to AI in biomedical discovery.
- Strong task management and communications skills.
- Strong programming experience in Java, Python, C++, or Perl;
- Must demonstrate willingness to learn new computational knowledge, techniques, and procedures.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
- Highly self-motivated individual; strong organization skills; ability to multi-task, prioritize and meet deadlines; proven ability to successfully follow-through on assigned projects.
WORKING CONDITIONS
There are no special health or safety hazards, environmental conditions or hazardous equipment or supplies. A successful candidate will be provided with an independent office and a laptop. Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends as needed.
Case Western Reserve University is committed to providing a transparent estimate of the salary for this position at the time of its posting. The starting annual salary is $80,000-$100,000, depending on qualifications, experience, department budgets, and industry data.
Employees receive more than just a paycheck. University employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare, retirement plans, tuition assistance, paid time off, and a winter recess.