Laboratory Research Assistant

tsu.edu; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Texas Southern University in Houston seeks a Research Laboratory Assistant to support scientists with experiment preparation, documentation, inventory management, and general research tasks. Prior lab experience and strong attention to detail are essential.

Responsibilities include preparing reagents, maintaining lab organization, handling samples, GLP compliance, and assisting with equipment maintenance. A Bachelor's degree in a life sciences discipline plus 1 year of hands-on lab experience

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Sciences, or related life sciences discipline.
• Minimum 1 year hands-on experience in a professional laboratory environment (academic, research institute, CRO, or industry).
• Familiarity with standard laboratory techniques and equipment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; strong organizational abilities.

Responsibilities

• Assist with laboratory preparation before and after experiments.
• Prepare laboratory reagents, buffers, media, and research materials according to established protocols.
• Maintain laboratory organization, cleanliness, and equipment readiness.
• Support sample handling, labeling, storage, and documentation.
• Perform routine laboratory procedures under supervision.
• Assist with inventory management, reagent ordering, and stock organization.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and documentation.
• Follow laboratory safety procedures and Good Laboratory Practices (GLP).
• Support scientists with general experimental workflows and research operations.
• Participate in equipment maintenance and laboratory quality management activities.

Skills

Attention to detail

Organizational skills

Written communication

Verbal communication

Independent work

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in life sciences

Tools

LIMS

Job description

Position Summary

The Research Laboratory Assistant will support laboratory operations by assisting scientists and research personnel with experiment preparation, laboratory organization, documentation, inventory management, and general research support. Prior cell culture experience is preferred but not required. Candidates should at least possess previous hands-on experience working in a professional laboratory environment and demonstrate strong attention to detail, organization, and laboratory best practices.

Responsibilities

• Assist with laboratory preparation before and after experiments.
• Prepare laboratory reagents, buffers, media, and research materials according to established protocols.
• Maintain laboratory organization, cleanliness, and equipment readiness.
• Support sample handling, labeling, storage, and documentation.
• Perform routine laboratory procedures under supervision.
• Assist with inventory management, reagent ordering, and stock organization.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and documentation.
• Follow laboratory safety procedures and Good Laboratory Practices (GLP).
• Support scientists with general experimental workflows and research operations.
• Participate in equipment maintenance and laboratory quality management activities.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Sciences, or a related life science discipline.
• Minimum 1 year of hands-on experience in a professional laboratory environment (academic, research institute, CRO, or industry laboratory).
• Familiarity with standard laboratory techniques and equipment.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced research environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Molecular biology techniques
• PCR or qPCR
• DNA/RNA extraction
• Protein assays
• ELISA
• Pipetting techniques
• Laboratory inventory management
• Laboratory documentation
• Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)
• Mandarin Speaker Preferred

What We're Looking For

We value individuals who:

• Demonstrate strong laboratory discipline and attention to detail.
• Learn quickly and adapt to new experimental procedures.
• Communicate effectively within multidisciplinary teams.
• Take ownership of assigned responsibilities.
• Are enthusiastic about building a growing biotechnology company.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Comprehensive training and mentorship in a collaborative research environment
• Opportunities for professional growth within a rapidly expanding biotechnology company
• Exposure to diverse life science research projects and cutting-edge laboratory technologies
• A collaborative, innovative, and supportive workplace culture
• Eligibility for OPT employment and consideration for H-1B visa sponsorship for qualified candidates, based on business needs and individual performance