Matei Lab Research Assistant

At Houston Methodist, the Research Assistant II position is responsible for providing technical research support. Work could be performed in either a laboratory or office environment. Under direct supervision of the Principal Investigator (PI), this position assists scientists, both independentlyand collaboratively, with investigative procedures. The Research Assistant II position performs various assays, imaging experiments and other technical duties to assist with research activities and may be required to work with animal models and/or human subjects. FLSA STATUS Exempt QUALIFICATIONS EDUCATION Bachelor of Arts or Science in a related field EXPERIENCE Two years' relevant research or academic experience LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS Required May be required depending on position, refer to addendum if necessary SKILLS AND ABILITIES Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through on-going skills, competency assessments, and performance evaluations Sufficient 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 security Ability 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 principles Works well in a team environment, as well as independently, with minimal supervision Ability to prioritize frequently, quickly shift tasks, and adapt to a rapidly changing environment ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS PEOPLE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Maintains positive working relationships with Research stakeholders and customers. Actively participates in planning meetings and provides meaningful contributions to drive decision making and next steps. Role models to team members effective communication skills, assisting in their development of such skills. Promotes a positive work environment and contributes to a dynamic, team-focused work unit that actively helps one other to achieve optimal department results. Collaborates with all members of the research team by actively communicating and reporting pertinent information as it relates to assigned system(s) in a comprehensive manner. Fosters staff engagement by demonstrating active listening, requesting and acknowledging feedback, providing rationale when appropriate, and supporting organizational goals. Works towards improving department's employee engagement score. SERVICE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Follows technical instruction in setting up and conducting experiments, including biological assays, quantitative and qualitative analyses. Effectively utilizes and operates laboratory and/or computer equipment. Tabulates inventory and maintains supplies and equipment. Collaborates with PI's and other research members to provide consistent research collection. QUALITY/SAFETY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Maintains records of all tests performed and data collected. For laboratory positions: Makes minor modifications and/or repairs on laboratory equipment. Calibrates and operates a variety of laboratory equipment. Assists with implementation and education of department-based safety initiatives, standards of practice and protocols. Develops skills of team members and continually assists with improving skills, performance and outcomes. FINANCE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Uses resources efficiently; does not waste supplies. Self-motivated to independently manage time effectively and prioritize daily tasks. Provides data and figures for manuscripts and grants. GROWTH/INNOVATION ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Participates in the development or establishment of new laboratory and/or department procedures, including biological assays, quantitative and qualitative analysis. 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 WORK ATTIRE Uniform: No Scrubs: Yes Business professional: Yes Other (department approved): No ON-CALL * *Note that employees may be required to be on-call during emergencies (ie. Disaster, Severe Weather Events, etc) regardless of selection below. On Call* No TRAVEL ** Travel specifications may vary by department May require travel within the Houston Metropolitan area No May require travel outside Houston Metropolitan area No QUALIFICATIONS EDUCATION Bachelor of Arts or Science in a related field EXPERIENCE Two years' relevant research or academic experience LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS Required May be required depending on position, refer to addendum if necessary Company 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.