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 independently and 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.

Additional Responsibilities:

Responsibilities:
- Assist with laboratory experiments and research projects under the direct supervision of the Principal Investigator (PI)
- Perform various laboratory techniques, including DNA extraction, PCR, and next-generation sequencing
- Conduct cell biology experiments and maintain mammalian cell cultures
- Assist in clinical research activities, including documentation review and data collection for clinical trials
- Collaborate with team members to analyze and interpret research data
- Contribute to the preparation of scientific reports and presentations

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.

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive; the employee will also perform other reasonably related business/job duties as assigned. Houston Methodist reserves the right to revise job duties and responsibilities as the need arises.

EDUCATION

• Bachelor of Arts or Science in a related field

WORK EXPERIENCE

• Two years' relevant research or academic experience