Research Tech 1

University of Houston; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 22,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Houston is seeking a Research Technician in Pharmacological & Pharmaceutic Department to support laboratory research activities, including sample preparation, data collection, cell culture, and routine lab operations. The role involves assisting with biology and chemistry experiments, maintaining equipment, and documenting results.

Ideal candidates will have 1–2 years of hands-on research experience, mammalian cell culture, and experience with at least two molecular biology

Qualifications

• At least 1–2 years of hands-on research experience beyond standard coursework.
• Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and sterile technique.
• Experience with at least two molecular or cellular biology techniques (PCR/qPCR, Western blotting, immunofluorescence, transfection, protein assays, etc.).

Responsibilities

• Assist with biology and chemistry experiments, sample preparation, instrument calibration, routine equipment maintenance, and data analysis.
• Perform routine mammalian cell culture, cell maintenance, and related experiments.
• Follow established protocols and ensure experiments are performed to specification.
• Accurately record procedures, observations and results.
• Monitor equipment and safety practices, ensure compliance with safety procedures.
• Maintain laboratory inventory of reagents, cells, plasmids, and consumables.
• Assist with troubleshooting routine issues and refer complex problems to senior staff.
• Suggest improvements to procedures or workflows as appropriate.
• Learn and implement new laboratory techniques as research needs evolve.

Skills

Mammalian cell culture

Aseptic technique

PCR/qPCR

Western blotting

Immunofluorescence

Transfection

Education

High School Diploma + 1 year experience

Job description

Department

Pharmacological & Pharmaceutic

Salary

$16.63 - $18.73

Description

Provides assistance and expertise in various areas of research such as calibration of instrumentation, equipment maintenance and repair, preparation of samples for testing, monitoring of safety equipment and procedures, development and fabrication of prototype equipment, recording of test results, and basic analyses of data.

• Ensures experiments are performed according to specification.
• May make practical technical recommendations to changes in procedures, equipment, or prototype design.
• May perform simple and repetitive task.
• May assist in advanced functions as part of training.
• Refers questions and problems to higher levels.
• Immediate supervision is available.

Additional Posting Information

The Research Technician provides technical support for laboratory research activities, including experimental execution, sample preparation, data collection, cell culture, and routine laboratory operations. The position will support ongoing research projects and assist with maintaining an organized, safe, and functional laboratory environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with biology and chemistry experiments, sample preparation, instrument calibration, routine equipment maintenance, and basic data analysis.
• Perform routine mammalian cell culture, cell maintenance, and related experimental procedures.
• Follow established experimental protocols and ensure experiments are performed according to specifications.
• Accurately record experimental procedures, observations, and results.
• Monitor laboratory equipment and safety practices and ensure compliance with established safety procedures.
• Maintain laboratory inventory, including reagents, chemicals, cell lines, plasmids, consumables, and other research materials.
• Assist with troubleshooting routine experimental or equipment-related issues and refer more complex problems to senior laboratory personnel.
• Recommend practical improvements to laboratory procedures or workflows when appropriate.
• Learn and implement new laboratory techniques and technologies as research needs evolve.

Duties

The Research Technician may assist with or independently perform selected advanced experiments after appropriate training. The position is expected to troubleshoot routine problems and seek guidance for complex experimental or technical issues.

Supervision

Works under direct supervision while independently performing assigned tasks

Preferred Qualifications

• At least 1–2 years of relevant hands-on research experience beyond standard high school or undergraduate laboratory coursework.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and sterile/aseptic technique.
• Experience with at least two molecular or cellular biology techniques, such as PCR/qPCR, Western blotting, immunofluorescence, transfection, protein assays, molecular cloning, or related methods.

Education In Lieu Of Experience

MQ: High School Diploma with 1 year of experience.

All positions at the University of Houston-System are security sensitive and will require a criminal history check.

The University of Houston System and its universities are Equal Opportunity Institutions. Everyone is encouraged to apply.