Research Assistant I/II/III - Pediatrics Research

The research assistant will perform laboratory experiments, work with biological samples and potentially animal models, collect and organize data, and maintain accurate laboratory records in support of studies on craniofacial development and congenital disease. Personnel in such positions, and similarly situated state contractors, will be routinely reviewed to determine whether things such as criminal history or continuous connections to the government or political apparatus of a foreign adversary might prevent the applicant, employee, or contractor from being able to maintain the security or integrity of the infrastructure.

This position will work in the Li Lab in the Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Research Center. The Pediatric Research Center is home to wide-ranging research focused on identifying the causes of birth defects with the ultimate goal of developing prevention and treatment strategies.

The research assistant will perform laboratory experiments, work with biological samples and potentially animal models, collect and organize data, and maintain accurate laboratory records in support of studies on craniofacial development and congenital disease. The individual will also maintain laboratory equipment and supplies, follow research protocols and safety requirements, and assist with analyzing and communicating research results at a level appropriate to the selected classification.

The ideal candidate will preferably have laboratory research experience in developmental biology, genetics, molecular and cellular biology, bioengineering, or a related field.

Preferred qualifications include experience with mouse models and animal handling, biological sample processing, molecular biology techniques, organoid or tissue culture, microinjection, accurate research documentation, and data collection and analysis. Familiarity with genomics, single-cell technologies, bioinformatics, or software such as R would be beneficial.

What we do here changes the world. UTHealth Houston is Texas' resource for healthcare education, innovation, scientific discovery, and excellence in patient care. That's where you come in.

Once you join us you won't want to leave. It's because we reward our team for the excellent service they provide. Our total rewards package includes the benefits you'd expect from a top healthcare organization (benefits, insurance, etc.), plus:

• 100% paid medical premiums for our full-time employees
• Generous time off (holidays, preventative leave day, both vacation and sick time - all of which equates to around 37-38 days per year)
• The longer you stay, the more vacation you'll accrue!
• Longevity Pay (Monthly payments after two years of service)
• Build your future with our awesome retirement/pension plan!

We take care of our employees! As a world-renowned institution, our employees' wellbeing is important to us. We offer work/life services such as...

• Free financial and legal counseling
• Free mental health counseling services
• Gym membership discounts and access to wellness programs
• Other employee discounts including entertainment, car rentals, cell phones, etc.
• Resources for child and elder care
• Plus many more!

Position Summary:

The Research Assistant I, under general supervision, conducts basic/ translational research which may include animal work and other activities according to research protocol. Research activities may include some or all of the following: handling biological samples, laboratory experiments and activities, and data collection.

Position Key Accountabilities:

• Under general supervision, performs laboratory experiments and activities to support research objectives.
• Collects, organize and prepares research data to provide needed information to principal investigators and other researchers. Updates notebooks, records, and databases as needed.
• Maintains clean laboratory equipment and/or work area to ensure a safe and efficient work environment.
• Orders laboratory and/or other supplies as directed by senior research staff.
• Stays abreast of new and updated procedures and protocols for the research laboratory. Must maintain compliance with required training. May participate in continuing education programs, seminars, and workshops.
• As needed, may coordinate the work of technicians to ensure efficient, timely and high-quality results.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Certification/Skills:

• General knowledge of research fields

Minimum Education:

Bachelor's Degree required May substitute required education with equivalent years of experience beyond the minimum experience requirement.

Minimum Experience:

Research Assistant I - None

Research Assistant II - 2 years of specialized experience in research or lab environment required May substitute required experience with equivalent years of education beyond the minimum education requirement.

Research Assistant III - 4 years of advanced experience in a research or lab environment required May substitute required experience with equivalent years of education beyond the minimum education requirement.

Physical Requirements:

Exerts up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 10 pounds frequently and/or a negligible amount constantly to move objects.

Security Sensitive:

This position is a security-sensitive position pursuant to Texas Education Code §51.215 and Texas Government Code §411.094. To the extent that a position requires the holder to research, work on, or have access to critical infrastructure as defined in Texas Business and Commerce Code §117.001(2), the ability to maintain the security or integrity of the infrastructure is a minimum qualification to be hired for and to continue to be employed in that position. Personnel in such positions, and similarly situated state contractors, will be routinely reviewed to determine whether things such as criminal history or continuous connections to the government or political apparatus of a foreign adversary might prevent the applicant, employee, or contractor from being able to maintain the security or integrity of the infrastructure. A foreign adversary is a nation listed in 15 C.F.R. §791.4.

Residency Requirement:

Employees must permanently reside and work in the State of Texas.