Research Technician

Research TechnicianAt Houston Methodist, the Research Technician I position is responsible for, while under supervision, assisting scientists with laboratory and investigative procedures. This position performs various assays, imaging experiments, and other technical duties to assist with the research activities of the laboratory and may be required to work with animal models and/or human subjects, performing scientific analyses and test required for research under direct supervision.Qualifications:High School diploma or equivalent education (examples include: GED, verification of homeschool equivalency, partial or full completion of post-secondary education, etc.)Experience:NoneSkills and Abilities:Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through on-going skills, competency assessments, and performance evaluationsSufficient proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing the English language necessary to perform the essential functions of this job, especially with regard to activities impacting patient or employee safety or securityAbility to effectively communicate with patients, physicians, family members and co-workers in a manner consistent with a customer service focus and application of positive language principlesAbility to communicate effectively and escalate utilizing problem-solving and decision-making skillsEffective time management skillsExperience with computer spreadsheets or databasesKnowledge of Microsoft Office productsAbility to utilize independent judgmentEssential Functions:Demonstrates teamwork by responding positively to requests for assistance to achieve optimal department results.Collaborates with all members of the laboratory team by actively communicating, providing meaningful contributions and reporting pertinent information as it relates to assigned system(s) in a comprehensive manner.Uses peer-to-peer accountability towards improvement of department score for turnover/retention/employee engagementPerforms bench chemistry, microbiology, molecular biology or other scientific techniques according to protocol.Accurately conducts microscope work and basic image analysis.Conducts the safe collection and handling of human/animal tissue, blood or other biological specimens which includes animal handling and may include basic animal husbandry.Identifies opportunities for corrective action and process improvement providing recommendations and contributes to meeting departmental and hospital targets for quality and safety.Uses resources efficiently; does not waste supplies. Self-motivated to independently manage time effectively, reducing incidental overtime, and prioritizes daily tasks.Collaborates with management to order appropriate laboratory supplies and equipment within the department.Participates in department initiatives, projects and shared governance activities.Trains in new techniques and procedures as they emerge, as appropriate.Seeks opportunities to expand learning beyond baseline competencies with a focus on continual development. Completes and updates the individual development plan (IDP) on an on-going basis.Supplemental Requirements:Uniform: NoScrubs: YesBusiness professional: YesOther (department approved): NoOn Call: NoTravel within the Houston Metropolitan area: NoTravel outside Houston Metropolitan area: NoCompany Profile:Houston Methodist Academic Institute oversees the Education Institute and Research Institute. The Academic Institute aligns our research and education initiatives in service to the clinical mission, providing solutions that answer the call for new technologies and skills our clinicians need for patient care. Houston Methodist Education Institute coordinates our primary academic affiliation with Weill Cornell Medicine and other joint programs, including the Engineering Medicine Program at Texas A&M University Intercollegiate School of Engineering Medicine. The Education Institute also oversees continuing medical education and graduate medical education, and supports trainees in residence for medical, nursing, allied health and research education programs. Houston Methodist Research Institute supports research programs and infrastructure that enable faculty across the system to bring new scientific discoveries to patients as rapidly as possible through the full cycle of a cure from conceptual bench research, to prototyping and development, to clinical trials and FDA approval. The Research Institute supports clinical research protocols and extramurally funded translational research programs.Houston Methodist is an Equal Opportunity Employer.