Research Fellow - Genetics

At Houston Methodist, the Research Assistant I position is responsible for providing technical research support in performing research experiments. Work could be performed in either a laboratory or office environment. Under direct supervision of the Principal Investigator (PI), the Research Assistant I assists in the organization, tabulation and analysis of data. This position maintains records of data collected.
We are seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant to join our lab in the Immunobiology and Transplant Research department at the Houston Methodist Research Institute. Our research focuses on understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms of innate immune regulation and developing therapeutic strategies for cardiovascular, infectious, inflammatory, and autoimmune diseases, with particular emphasis on viral myocarditis, autoimmune myocarditis, and sepsis.
Our laboratory integrates molecular and cellular biology, immunology, genetics, single-cell RNA sequencing, spatial transcriptomics, and advanced disease models to investigate the mechanisms underlying immune-mediated tissue injury and disease progression. A major goal of our research is to identify novel immune regulators and signaling pathways that can be therapeutically targeted to prevent or treat myocarditis, autoimmune diseases, sepsis, and related inflammatory disorders.
This position offers an exciting opportunity to investigate fundamental and translational questions in cardiovascular immunology and innate immunity using state-of-the-art technologies in a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment. The successful candidate will receive strong scientific mentorship and career development support.
Selected publications from our laboratory include:
Nature Immunology (2016; PMID: 27695001)
Nature Communications (2017; PMID: 29038422)
Nature Communications (2021; PMID: 33976210)
Nature Communications (2024; PMID: 38664417)
Journal of Biomedical Science (2022; PMID: 35909127)
Experimental & Molecular Medicine (2026; in press)

FLSA STATUS

Exempt

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION

~ Bachelor of Arts or Science in a related field

EXPERIENCE

~ None

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

Actively participates in research planning meetings and provides meaningful contributions that drive decision-making and clearly identifies next steps. Demonstrates teamwork by responding positively to requests for assistance achieve optimal department results. Uses peer-to-peer accountability towards improvement of department score for turnover/retention/employee engagement.

SERVICE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Performs technical laboratory research. Accurately follows technical instruction in setting up and conducting experiments, including biological assays, quantitative and qualitative analyses. Provides updates on assigned experiments and research outcomes.

QUALITY/SAFETY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Maintains records of all tests performed and data collected. Ensures safe operation of appropriate laboratory equipment. Identifies opportunities for corrective action and process improvement providing recommendations; contributes to meeting department and hospital targets for quality and safety.

FINANCE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Uses resources efficiently; does not waste supplies. Evaluates and reports on inventory levels. Self-motivated to independently manage time effectively and prioritize daily tasks. Assists department management in product evaluations and utilization of existing products.

GROWTH/INNOVATION ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Participation in the development or establishment of new laboratory procedures, including biological assays, quantitative and qualitative analysis. Trains in new techniques as they emerge as appropriate. Seeks opportunities to expand learning beyond baseline competencies with a focus on continual development as a researcher. 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

~ None

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.