Research Tech 1

University of Houston System; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 23,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Houston System seeks a Research Technician to support laboratory research activities, perform experimental execution, sample preparation, data collection, cell culture, and routine operations. The role contributes to ongoing projects and ensures a safe, organized lab environment.

Under direct supervision, the technician will assist with experiments, document procedures, and help troubleshoot routine issues while learning new techniques as projects evolve.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and sterile/aseptic technique.
• Experience with at least two molecular or cellular biology techniques (e.g., PCR/qPCR, Western blotting, immunofluorescence, transfection, protein assays, cloning).

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.

Skills

Mammalian cell culture

Sterile technique

Molecular biology techniques

Education

High School Diploma with 1 year of experience

Job description

Department:Pharmacological & PharmaceuticSalary:$16.63 - $18.73

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.

1. 1. Ensures experiments are performed according to specification.
2. 2. May make practical technical recommendations to changes in procedures, equipment, or prototype design.
3. 3. May perform simple and repetitive task.
4. 4. May assist in advanced functions as part of training.
5. 5. Refers questions and problems to higher levels.
6. 6. 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.

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.