Research Technician

Rice; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 25,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

The Veiseh Lab in the Department of Bioengineering at Rice University is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Research Technician to support research efforts in cell engineering and biomaterials. Our lab integrates molecular and cellular biology with advanced biomaterial fabrication techniques to develop innovative cell therapy platforms for in vivo biochemical sensing and therapeutic delivery.

Ideal candidates will have interest in translational biomedical research with preferred experience

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• 2+ years of relevant laboratory experience in biological sciences, bioengineering, or related field.
• Undergraduate degree in bioengineering, biology, chemistry, or related field (preferred).
• Familiarity with core laboratory techniques in biological or physical sciences; strong organizational skills and accurate record-keeping.
• Ability to follow experimental protocols and contribute to troubleshooting; effective communication and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Performs standard laboratory tasks supporting ongoing research projects (preparing reagents, setting up experiments, maintaining equipment).
• Assists with cell culture, material handling, and general experimental procedures following established protocols.
• Collects, organizes, and records data in notebooks and electronic systems.
• Maintains laboratory supplies and inventory; assists with ordering and tracking materials.
• Participates in daily lab operations, equipment upkeep, and safety compliance.
• Contributes to troubleshooting and may support small animal model work depending on training and project needs.

Skills

Core lab techniques

Record-keeping

Protocols follow-through

Communication

Team collaboration

Lab safety

Education

High school diploma

Undergraduate degree (bioengineering/biology/chemistry)

Job description

The Veiseh Lab in the Department of Bioengineering at Rice University is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Research Technician to support research efforts in cell engineering and biomaterials. Our lab integrates molecular and cellular biology with advanced biomaterial fabrication techniques—ranging from nano to macro scale— to develop innovative cell therapy platforms for in vivo biochemical sensing and therapeutic delivery.

For more information about the Veiseh Lab’s research, please visit https://veisehlab.rice.edu.

Ideal Candidate Statement:

The ideal candidate will have a strong interest in translational biomedical research and a desire to contribute to the development of clinically relevant cell-based therapies. Preferred experience includes mammalian cell culture, working with rodent models, and chemical synthesis. The technician will play an integral role in supporting experimental work, maintaining lab operations, and collaborating closely with a multidisciplinary research team.

Success in this role requires strong communication and organizational skills, a collaborative mindset, and a commitment to scientific rigor in a fast-paced and diverse laboratory environment.

Workplace Location:

This is an on-site position, requiring all responsibilities to be carried out in person at Rice University Campus. Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change.

Hiring Range:

$18 – 21/hour for up-to 40 hours per week.

*Non-Exempt (hourly) positions under FLSA are eligible for overtime.

This is a benefits-eligible, full-time position funded by grant, soft, and/or restricted funds. The appointment is for one year with the option for renewal for up to three years contingent upon satisfactory performance, the availability of continued funding, and ongoing research needs.

Minimum Requirements:

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• 2 + years of relevant laboratory experience in biological sciences, bioengineering, or a related research field. Relevant Post high school academic experience may count toward the experience requirement.

In lieu of the experience requirement, additional related education, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year-for-year basis may be substituted

• Skills:

• Familiarity with core laboratory techniques in the biological or physical sciences
• Strong organizational skills and accurate record-keeping
• Ability to follow experimental protocols and contribute to troubleshooting
• Effective communication and teamwork in a collaborative lab environment
• Commitment to lab safety, research integrity, and daily lab operations

• Preferences:

• Undergraduate degree in bioengineering, biology, chemistry, or a related field
• Experience or demonstrated capacity to learn mammalian cell culture and basic cellular analysis
• Experience or demonstrated capacity to learn biomaterial fabrication and chemical preparation or materials handling
• Experience or demonstrated capacity to learn techniques involving small animal models for in vivo research
• Experience or demonstrated capacity to learn genetic engineering, molecular cloning, molecular biology assays, and bacterial culture

• Essential Functions:

• Performs standard laboratory tasks in support of ongoing research projects, including preparing reagents, setting up experiments, and maintaining lab equipment
• Assists with cell culture, material handling, and general experimental procedures, following established protocols
• Collects, organizes, and records data accurately in laboratory notebooks and electronic systems
• Maintains laboratory supplies and inventory; assists with ordering and tracking materials
• Participates in daily lab operations, including equipment upkeep and adherence to safety procedures
• Follows experimental protocols with attention to detail and contributes to troubleshooting as needed
• Supports research activities that may include small animal models, depending on training and project needs
• Communicates effectively with lab members and contributes to a collaborative, team-oriented environment
• Upholds standards of laboratory safety, research integrity, and institutional compliance
• Performs other duties as assigned to support the research and administrative needs of the lab

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If you have any additional questions, please email us at [e-mail]. Thank you for your interest in employment with Rice University.