Research Assistant I - The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine

UTHealth Houston•Houston, TX

About The Position

The Research Assistant I will join a team of 4–5 researchers investigating skeletal muscle function, disease, and regeneration. Under general direction or supervision, this position supports basic and translational research, which may include animal work and other activities conducted according to research protocols. Research focuses on skeletal muscle biology and diseases including Duchenne muscular dystrophy, cancer cachexia, aging, and peripheral arterial disease, with an emphasis on mitochondrial function, muscle energetics, vascularization, and tissue regeneration. The role supports ongoing research using rodent models and cell culture systems. Duties include managing mouse colonies and genotyping; organizing the laboratory and ordering supplies; providing technical support for research projects using techniques such as Western blotting, qPCR, histology, and cell culture; handling biological samples; conducting experiments; collecting and preparing data; and maintaining accurate records. The successful candidate will follow established protocols, keep laboratory equipment and work areas clean, stay current with procedures and required training, and contribute to a collaborative biomedical research environment. The position requires the ability and willingness to work with and manage rodent colonies. Previous biomedical research experience is a plus, and candidates with varying levels of experience are encouraged to apply. Employees must permanently reside and work in Texas. This is a security-sensitive position.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required; required education may be substituted with equivalent years of experience beyond the minimum experience requirement.
Ability and willingness to work with and manage rodent colonies is essential.
General knowledge of research fields.
Must permanently reside and work in Texas.
Must be able to meet the security-sensitive position requirements described in the posting.

Nice To Haves

Previous biomedical research experience.
Experience with mouse handling is preferred.
Experience with techniques such as Western blotting, qPCR, histology, and cell culture.
Organized, dependable, attentive to detail, eager to learn new techniques, and enthusiastic about collaborative biomedical research.

Responsibilities

Perform laboratory experiments and activities to support research objectives.
Support basic and translational research using rodent models and cell culture systems, according to research protocols.
Manage mouse colonies and perform genotyping.
Provide technical support for ongoing projects using techniques such as Western blotting, qPCR, histology, and cell culture.
Handle biological samples and collect research data.
Organize and prepare research data for principal investigators and other researchers.
Update notebooks, records, and databases as needed.
Maintain clean laboratory equipment and work areas to support a safe and efficient environment.
Order laboratory and other supplies as directed by senior research staff.
Stay current with laboratory procedures and protocols and maintain compliance with required training.
As needed, coordinate technicians’ work to support efficient, timely, and high-quality results.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

100% paid medical premiums for full-time employees.
Generous time off, including holidays, a preventative leave day, vacation, and sick time (around 37–38 days per year).
Vacation accrual increases with length of service.
Monthly longevity payments after two years of service.
Retirement/pension plan.
Free financial and legal counseling.
Free mental health counseling services.
Gym membership discounts and access to wellness programs.
Employee discounts, including entertainment, car rentals, and cell phones.
Resources for child and elder care.