Research Assistant I - Orthopedics - Taraballi

Houston Methodist•Houston, TX

About The Position

We’re seeking an enthusiastic Research Assistant to join our team focused on encapsulating genetic cargo for advanced drug delivery systems. In this role, you will prepare reagents and materials for synthesis, requiring a strong understanding of mathematical ratios and the distinctions between concentrations and masses. You’ll also play a vital role in managing laboratory inventory—organizing supplies, setting up systems, and maintaining accurate records. Additional responsibilities include processing and aliquoting samples, as well as coordinating sample shipments, all of which are essential for ensuring smooth and efficient lab operations. At Houston Methodist, the Research Assistant I position is responsible for providing technical research support in performing research experiments. Work could be performed in either a laboratory or office environment. Under direct supervision of the Principal Investigator (PI), the Research Assistant I assists in the organization, tabulation and analysis of data. This position maintains records of data collected. Houston Methodist Standard PATIENT AGE GROUP(S) AND POPULATION(S) SERVED Refer to departmental "Scope of Service" and "Provision of Care" plans, as applicable, for description of primary age groups and populations served by this job for the respective HM entity. HOUSTON METHODIST EXPERIENCE EXPECTATIONS Provide personalized care and service by consistently demonstrating our I CARE values: INTEGRITY: We are honest and ethical in all we say and do. COMPASSION: We embrace the whole person including emotional, ethical, physical, and spiritual needs. ACCOUNTABILITY: We hold ourselves accountable for all our actions. RESPECT: We treat every individual as a person of worth, dignity, and value. EXCELLENCE: We strive to be the best at what we do and a model for others to emulate. Practices the Caring and Serving Model Delivers personalized service using HM Service Standards Provides for exceptional patient/customer experiences by following our Standards of Practice of always using Positive Language (AIDET, Managing Up, Key Words) Intentionally collaborates with other healthcare professionals involved in patients/customers or employees' experiential journeys to ensure strong communication, ease of access to information, and a seamless experience Involves patients (customers) in shift/handoff reports by enabling their participation in their plan of care as applicable to the given job Actively supports the organization's vision, fulfills the mission and abides by the I CARE values

Requirements

Bachelor of Arts or Science in a related field
Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through on-going skills, competency assessments, and performance evaluations
Sufficient proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing the English language necessary to perform the essential functions of this job, especially with regard to activities impacting patient or employee safety or security
Ability to effectively communicate with patients, physicians, family members and co-workers in a manner consistent with a customer service focus and application of positive language principles
Works well in a team environment, as well as independently, with minimal supervision
Ability to prioritize frequently, quickly shift tasks, and adapt to a rapidly changing environment

Responsibilities

Actively participates in research planning meetings and provides meaningful contributions that drive decision-making and clearly identifies next steps.
Demonstrates teamwork by responding positively to requests for assistance achieve optimal department results.
Uses peer-to-peer accountability towards improvement of department score for turnover/retention/employee engagement.
Performs technical laboratory research.
Accurately follows technical instruction in setting up and conducting experiments, including biological assays, quantitative and qualitative analyses.
Provides updates on assigned experiments and research outcomes.
Maintains records of all tests performed and data collected.
Ensures safe operation of appropriate laboratory equipment.
Identifies opportunities for corrective action and process improvement providing recommendations; contributes to meeting department and hospital targets for quality and safety.
Uses resources efficiently; does not waste supplies.
Evaluates and reports on inventory levels.
Self-motivated to independently manage time effectively and prioritize daily tasks.
Assists department management in product evaluations and utilization of existing products.
Participation in the development or establishment of new laboratory procedures, including biological assays, quantitative and qualitative analysis.
Trains in new techniques as they emerge as appropriate.
Seeks opportunities to expand learning beyond baseline competencies with a focus on continual development as a researcher.
Completes and updates the individual development plan (IDP) on an on-going basis.