Job Description

Dr. Hung Luu lab is looking for a Research Assistant who can coordinate and perform biospecimen collection, processing, aliquoting, and storage following standardized protocols (e.g., for blood, urine, saliva, fecal samples and/or tumor tissues). Maintain and manage biorepository inventory using electronic tracking systems (e.g., REDCap, FreezerPro). Ensure accurate labeling, documentation, and chain-of-custody procedures for all biospecimens. Oversee day-to-day lab operations, including ordering supplies, maintaining equipment, and ensuring laboratory safety and regulatory compliance. Support PIs’ studies by assisting with data entry, quality control, and basic statistical summaries of biospecimen or assay data. Coordinate with research staff, research coordinators, investigators, and external collaborators for sample shipments, tracking, and data linkage.

At Houston Methodist, the Research Technician I position is responsible for, while under supervision, assisting scientists with laboratory and investigative procedures. This position performs various assays, imaging experiments, and other technical duties to assist with the research activities of the laboratory and may be required to work with animal models and/or human subjects, performing scientific analyses and test required for research under direct supervision.

Requirements:

PEOPLE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• 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 achieve optimal department results.

• Uses peer-to-peer accountability towards improvement of department score for turnover/retention/employee engagement.

SERVICE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• 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.

QUALITY/SAFETY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Maintains records of all tests performed and data collected.

• Ensures safe operation of appropriate laboratory equipment.

• Identifies opportunities for corrective action and process improvement providing recommendations; contributes to meeting department and hospital targets for quality and safety.

FINANCE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• 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.

GROWTH/INNOVATION ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Participation 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 on-going basis.

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive; the employee will also perform other reasonably related business/job duties as assigned. Houston Methodist reserves the right to revise job duties and responsibilities as the need arises.

Qualifications:

EDUCATION

• Bachelor of Arts or Science in a related field

WORK EXPERIENCE

• None

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS - REQUIRED

• N/A

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through on-going 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

• Works well in a team environment, as well as independently, with minimal supervision

• Ability to prioritize frequently, quickly shift tasks, and adapt to a rapidly changing environment

SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

WORK ATTIRE

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

ON-CALL*
*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**
**Travel specifications may vary by department**

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

Candidates who submit interest via a third-party quick apply process are not considered formal applicants until a complete application has been submitted on our career site. We will review your interest but recommend to apply at houstonmethodistcareers.org

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