Research Assistant II - Infectious Disease - Immunology

at  Houston Methodist Academic Institute

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.
This position will support basic research in mucosal immunity and infectious disease. The laboratory technician will, after training, perform independent work examining the influence of commensal bacteria, infections, and host factors on the outcome of intestinal and lung diseases. Responsibilities will include laboratory management, experiment execution, data analysis and write-up which will be conducted under the direction of the primary supervisor. Techniques will include murine husbandry and model experiments, anerobic bacteria and parasite culture, DNA/RNA extraction, QPCR, ELISAs, Flow Cytometry, CFU assays and other techniques needed to support the project as it develops. Willingness and aptitude to receive training and work in BSL2 and BSL3 laboratories, as well as work with vertebrate animal models and infectious agents is required.

EDUCATION

• Bachelor of Arts or Science in a related field

WORK EXPERIENCE

• Two years’ relevant research or academic experience

KNOWLEDGE, 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

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Houston Methodist is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Equal employment opportunity is a sound and just concept to which Houston Methodist is firmly bound. Houston Methodist will not engage in discrimination against or harassment of any person employed or seeking employment with Houston Methodist on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or other characteristics protected by law. VEVRAA Federal Contractor – priority referral Protected Veterans requested

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.