Research Associate

Case; Cleveland (OH); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland seeks a Research Associate to contribute to AI-driven drug discovery and biomedical research. You will design experiments, develop novel AI methods, and collaborate with biologists and computer scientists to advance disease understanding and health outcomes research.

The role includes mentoring staff, developing SOPs, and presenting findings at meetings. A PhD with 5+ years of related experience is required, with opportunities for independent project

Qualifications

• PhD in computer science, biomedical informatics or related data science field required.
• Minimum 5 years of related experience as stated in the posting.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute experiments for research projects; assist with experimental design and data analysis.
• Develop AI algorithms and apply them to drug discovery and biomedical tasks.
• Mentor lab members and supervise staff and students; train in new techniques and SOPs.
• Present data at meetings and prepare manuscripts and grant data; contribute as first or co-author.

Skills

AI algorithm development

Machine learning

Deep learning

Knowledge graphs

Publication track record

Team collaboration

Java

Python

C++

Perl

Education

PhD degree in computer science or related data science fields

Tools

Java

Python

C++

Perl

Job description

Case Western Reserve University: School of Medicine (FAC/RA/RS): School of Medicine - Main Campus (FAC/RA/RS): Division of General Medical Sciences (GMS) (FAC/RA/RS): AI for Drug Discovery (GMS) (FAC/RA/RS)

Location

Open Date

Sep 16, 2026

Description

POSITION 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 Associa te. (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

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 (<1%)

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.

Application Process

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 [e-mail] . Determinations as to granting reasonable accommodations for any applicant will be made on a case‑by‑case basis.