Research Assistant

At Houston Methodist, the Research Assistant I position is responsible for providing technical research support in performing research experiments. Work may be performed in either a laboratory or office environment. Under direct supervision of the Principal Investigator (PI), the Research Assistant I assists in the organization, tabulation and analysis of data. This position maintains records of data collected.

Exempt

• Bachelor of Arts or Science in a related field

• None

• Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through ongoing skills, competency assessments, and performance evaluations
• Proficient 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
• Can 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
• Can prioritize frequently, quickly shift tasks, and adapt to a rapidly changing environment

• Actively participates in research planning meetings and provides meaningful contributions that drive decision‑making and clearly identifies next steps.
• Demonstrates teamwork by responding positively to requests for assistance to achieve optimal department results.
• Uses peer‑to‑peer accountability toward improvement of department score for turnover/retention/employee engagement.

• Performs technical laboratory research.
• Accurately follows technical instruction in setting up and conducting experiments, including biological assays, quantitative and qualitative analyses.
• Provides updates on assigned experiments and research outcomes.

• Maintains records of all tests performed and data collected.
• Ensures safe operation of appropriate laboratory equipment.
• Identifies opportunities for corrective action and process improvement, provides recommendations, and contributes to meeting department and hospital targets for quality and safety.

• Uses resources efficiently; does not waste supplies. Evaluates and reports on inventory levels. Self‑motivated to independently manage time effectively and prioritize daily tasks.
• Assists department management in product evaluations and utilization of existing products.

• Participates in the development or establishment of new laboratory procedures, including biological assays, quantitative and qualitative analysis.
• Trains in new techniques as they emerge, as appropriate.
• Seeks opportunities to expand learning beyond baseline competencies with a focus on continual development as a researcher. Completes and updates the individual development plan (IDP) on an ongoing basis.

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

* Note that employees may be required to be on‑call during emergencies (ie. Disaster, Severe Weather Events, etc) regardless of selection below.

• On Call
  * No

Travel specifications may vary by department.

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

Houston Methodist is an Equal Opportunity Employer.