Research Associate - Cancer Research

Position Overview

At Houston Methodist, the Research Associate I position is responsible for conducting laboratory experiments on research projects within well-defined guidelines. The position provides technical research skills and establishes test methods and procedures under the direction of the Department Chairperson or Scientist (Faculty). The Research Associate I evaluates results of processes, summarizes data.

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 English 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 to a dynamic, team‑focused work unit that actively helps one another to achieve optimal department results. 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 toward 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 contributing 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.

Work Attire

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

On‑Call:
No (employees may be required to be on call during emergencies regardless of selection below)

Travel:
No within or outside Houston Metropolitan area.