Research Assistant III - Pediatrics

This position will work in the Trainor Lab in the Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Research Center. The Pediatric Research Center is home to wide-ranging research focused on identifying the causes of birth defects with the ultimate goal of developing prevention and treatment strategies.

The Research Assistant III will independently perform complex laboratory experiments to investigate the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying craniofacial development and congenital birth defects. The individual will maintain accurate research records, analyze experimental data, assist with manuscript and grant preparation, and contribute to the day-to-day operations of a collaborative basic science research laboratory.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in developmental biology, genetics, molecular biology, cell biology, or embryology research, preferably using vertebrate animal models (e.g., mouse, zebrafish, or chick embryos)
• Proficiency with advanced laboratory techniques such as PCR, genotyping, DNA/RNA extraction, tissue processing, microscopy/imaging, immunohistochemistry, and maintaining accurate research records; experience contributing to manuscripts or grant preparation is preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently while collaborating effectively in a multidisciplinary research environment, with strong organizational, communication, problem-solving, and mentoring skills.

What we do here changes the world. UTHealth Houston is Texas’ resource for healthcare education, innovation, scientific discovery, and excellence in patient care. That’s where you come in.

Once you join us you won't want to leave. It’s because we reward our team for the excellent service they provide. Our total rewards package includes the benefits you’d expect from a top healthcare organization (benefits, insurance, etc.), plus:

• 100% paid medical premiums for our full-time employees
• Generous time off (holidays, preventative leave day, both vacation and sick time – all of which equates to around 37-38 days per year)
• The longer you stay, the more vacation you’ll accrue!
• Longevity Pay (Monthly payments after two years of service)
• Build your future with our awesome retirement/pension plan!

We take care of our employees! As a world-renowned institution, our employees’ wellbeing is important to us. We offer work/life services such as...

• Free financial and legal counseling
• Free mental health counseling services
• Gym membership discounts and access to wellness programs
• Other employee discounts including entertainment, car rentals, cell phones, etc.
• Resources for child and elder care
• Plus many more!

Position Summary

Under minimal direction of senior research staff, conducts and executes complex basic science/ translational experiments and research tasks and assists in the interpretation of the results.

Position Key Accountabilities

• Under minimal supervision, implements planned research experiments according to research protocol.
• Maintains accurate and timely records which may include notebooks, records, databases, etc. as needed by the research project. May assist in the preparation and writing of research reports, manuscripts, papers, and grant proposals for presentation and publication.
• Maintains clean laboratory equipment and/or work area to ensure a safe and efficient work environment.
• Monitors laboratory and/or other supplies to ensure sufficient inventory to support research projects. Ensures quality of reagents or other supplies.
• Stays abreast of new and updated procedures and protocols for research laboratory. Must complete required training. May participates in continuing education programs, seminars, and workshops.
• May provide guidance and training for support staff to ensure efficient, timely and high-quality results.
• May provide updates to Principal Investigator regarding research progress.
• Makes independent decisions as required, which may impact research team or assigned project.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Certification/Skills

• None

Minimum Education

Bachelor's Degree required

May substitute required education with equivalent years of experience beyond the minimum experience requirement.

Minimum Experience

Two (2) years of related…