Research Assistant I

Houston Methodist; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Houston Methodist is seeking a Research Assistant I in Houston, Texas. This role involves providing technical research support, managing data collection, and participating in laboratory experiments under supervision.

Applicants must possess a Bachelor of Arts or Science in a relevant field and demonstrate effective communication and teamwork skills. The position emphasizes adaptability and the ability to follow technical instructions carefully, contributing to quality and safety in research.

Qualifications

• Demonstrates skills necessary for assigned tasks through ongoing assessments.
• Proficiency in English is required to perform essential job functions.
• Ability to communicate effectively in customer service settings.

Responsibilities

• Performs technical laboratory research.
• Follows technical instructions for experiments.
• Maintains records of all tests and data.

Skills

Technical research skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor of Arts or Science in a related field

Job description

At Houston Methodist, the Research Assistant I position is responsible for providing technical research support in performing research experiments. Work could 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.

FLSA STATUS

Exempt

QUALIFICATIONS

Education: Bachelor of Arts or Science in a related field

Experience: None

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

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

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 ongoing basis.

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

Houston Methodist is an Equal Opportunity Employer.