Research Assistant I - Microbiology & Molecular Genetics at UTHealth in Houston, Texas

Job Description:

What we do here changes the world. UTHealth Houston is Texas' resource for healthcare education, innovation, scientific discovery, and excellence in patient care. That's where you come in.

The Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics (MMG) at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston has upheld a strong dedication to excellence in research and education for more than 30 years. The department conducts research in the biology, pathogenesis, and molecular genetics of various prokaryotic and eukaryotic microbes.

The Proctor Lab in MMG investigates the global impact, pathogenesis, and evolution of host-associated Candida species. Recognizing Candida as a growing health threat, the lab aims to understand its spread, transition from commensalism to pathogenesis, and resistance to antifungal therapy. The lab explores Candida in the context of the human microbiome using techniques such as comparative genomics, in vitro experimental evolution, and clinical and natural history studies of humans. We are dedicated to training future scientists for careers in public health, academia, and industry. We are now seeking a research assistant to join our growing team.

Once you join us you won't want to leave. It's because we reward our team for the excellent service they provide. Our total rewards package includes the benefits you'd expect from a top healthcare organization (benefits, insurance, etc.), plus:

• 100% paid medical premiums for our full-time employees
• Generous time off (holidays, preventative leave day, both vacation and sick time - all of which equates to around 37-38 days per year)
• The longer you stay, the more vacation you'll accrue!
• Longevity Pay (Monthly payments after two years of service)
• Build your future with our awesome retirement/pension plan!

We take care of our employees! As a world-renowned institution, our employees' wellbeing is important to us. We offer work/life services such as...

• Free financial and legal counseling
• Free mental health counseling services
• Gym membership discounts and access to wellness programs
• Other employee discounts including entertainment, car rentals, cell phones, etc.
• Resources for child and elder care
• Plus many more!

Position Summary:

Under close direction of senior research staff, conducts activities to support research projects.

Position Key Accountabilities:

• Under close supervision, conduct research activities according to research protocols.
• Perform molecular biology laboratory experiments and studies, including DNA extraction and PCR of easily contaminated human, mouse, and microbial samples, and DNA library preparation for sequencing.
• Process human and mouse samples, including stool, for laboratory studies.
• Handle, organize, and track human skin, oral, nares, blood, stool, and other samples; maintain specimens in accordance with laboratory procedures and regulations.
• Receive training and perform bacterial and fungal culturing following sterile techniques.
• Process and organize over 100 samples simultaneously.
• Maintain and operate a variety of laboratory instruments, including automated cell counters, autoclaves, centrifuges, fluorescent microscopes, PCR machines, PCR hoods, biosafety cabinets, and spectrophotometers.
• Provide laboratory materials for clinical biospecimen collection as a point of contact between clinical and laboratory-based staff.
• Collect data and perform data analysis.
• Maintain and update electronic laboratory notebooks and databases.
• Perform accurate record keeping.
• Attend weekly laboratory meetings to report research outcomes.
• Organize and maintain a clean and safe working space, including ordering supplies and equipment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Certification/Skills:

• General knowledge of research fields.

Minimum Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Life Sciences or a related discipline; or relevant experience in lieu of education.

Minimum Experience:

• No years of experience.
• Prior research experience as an undergrad. preferred.

Physical Requirements:

Exerts up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 10 pounds constantly and/or a negligible amount constantly to move objects.
This position may include work involving potentially hazardous chemical, biological or radioactive agents.

Security Sensitive:

This job class may contain positions that are security sensitive and thereby subject to the provisions of Texas Education Code § 51.215

Residency Requirement:

Employees must permanently reside and work in the State of Texas.

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