Research Technician - Hu Lab

Research Technician I

Assist scientists with laboratory and investigative procedures, performing assays, imaging experiments, and other technical duties to support research activities. May work with animal models and/or human subjects under direct supervision.

Non‑exempt

Education

• High School diploma or equivalent education (examples include: GED, verification of homeschool equivalency, partial or full completion of post‑secondary education, etc.)

Experience

• None

Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through ongoing skills, competency assessments, and performance evaluations
• Proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing English sufficient to perform 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 positive language principles
• Ability to communicate effectively and to utilize problem‑solving and decision‑making skills for escalation
• Effective time‑management skills
• Experience with computer spreadsheets or databases
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office products
• Ability to utilize independent judgment

People

• Demonstrates teamwork by responding positively to requests for assistance to achieve optimal department results.
• Collaborates with all members of the laboratory team by actively communicating, providing meaningful contributions, and reporting pertinent information as it relates to assigned system(s) in a comprehensive manner.
• Uses peer‑to‑peer accountability towards improvement of department score for turnover/retention/employee engagement

Service

• Performs bench chemistry, microbiology, molecular biology or other scientific techniques according to protocol.
• Accurately conducts microscope work and basic image analysis.

Quality/Safety

• Conducts the safe collection and handling of human/animal tissue, blood, or other biological specimens, including animal handling and possibly basic animal husbandry.
• Identifies opportunities for corrective action and process improvement, providing recommendations and contributing to meeting departmental and hospital targets for quality and safety.

Finance

• Uses resources efficiently; does not waste supplies. Self‑motivated to independently manage time effectively, reducing incidental overtime, and prioritizing daily tasks.
• Collaborates with management to order appropriate laboratory supplies and equipment within the department.

Growth/Innovation

• Participates in department initiatives, projects, and shared governance activities.
• Trains in new techniques and procedures as they emerge, as appropriate.
• Seeks opportunities to expand learning beyond baseline competencies with a focus on continual development; completes and updates the individual development plan (IDP) on an ongoing basis.

Work Attire

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

On‑Call

• Employees may be required to be on‑call during emergencies (e.g., disaster, severe weather events) regardless of selection below.
• On Call:
  No

Travel

• Travel specifications may vary by department.
• May require travel within Houston Metropolitan area:
  No
• May require travel outside Houston Metropolitan area:
  No

Houston Methodist is an Equal Opportunity Employer.