Research Associate, Research Scientist

At Houston Methodist, the Research Associate position involves performing basic research duties under the supervision/direction of a Principal Investigator. The incumbent will work in a laboratory setting and may be required to perform computer‑based tasks that support the department’s research mission.

We seek a motivated individual to study changes in the extracellular matrix and inflammation in the aging heart. Prior knowledge of either subject is a plus.

The candidate should be familiar with RNA and protein extraction and detection, as well as primary cell isolation and culture. We require experience in handling mice. The position will require performing LAD occlusion to induce a myocardial infarct in mice. Priority will be given to candidates with prior experience in myocardial injury models.

The Research Associate is expected to participate in literature searches, design and conduct experiments, present data in seminars and meetings, and co-author publications.

Exempt

• Master’s degree in related field or terminal degree with two years post‑doctoral experience

• Five years experience, depending on education level

• Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through ongoing 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
• Ability to work independently
• Capable of handling challenging/difficult situations
• Demonstrates sound judgment and executes analytical skills

• Assigns and reviews the work and outcomes for projects completed by assistants.
• Contributes to a positive work environment and collaborates with all members of the research team by actively communicating and reporting pertinent information as it relates to an assigned system(s) in a comprehensive manner.
• Provides contributions towards the improvement of department scores for turnover/retention/employee engagement.

• Analyzes data for research grants and publications. Prepares scientific presentations for department meetings.
• Completes/performs research experiments and incorporates novel procedures and methods into research experiments as appropriate (low to medium complexity).
• Maintains accurate records of all research and data collection.

• Establishes and maintains quality control of project operations.
• Writes and maintains regulatory and safety committee applications/protocols.
• 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 and prioritize daily tasks, minimizing incidental overtime.
• Assists with ensuring orders are on appropriate grants.

• Participates in grant writing.
• Determines specific research project goals and objectives to be attained. Assumes responsibility and oversight for those goals and objectives.
• Seeks opportunities to identify developmental needs of self and takes appropriate action. Ensures own career discussions occur with appropriate management. Completes and updates the individual development plan (IDP) on an ongoing basis.

• Uniform:
  No
• Scrubs:
  Yes
• Business professional:
  Yes
• Other (department approved):
  No

No.

• May require travel within the Houston Metropolitan area:
  No
• May require travel outside Houston Metropolitan area:
  No

1 – Day (United States of America)

Houston Methodist is an Equal Opportunity Employer.