Research Assistant II, Internal Medicine

UT Southwestern Medical Center • Dallas, TX

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Works under general direction to either plan, coordinate, supervise, and participate in assigned research projects or perform more complex research assignments requiring considerable experience and thorough knowledge of techniques and practices related to particular field of medical or scientific research. The role involves assisting in stereotaxic delivery and retro-orbital injections of viral constructs to the brain for over-expression and knockdown of particular transcription factors (TFs). It also includes conducting confocal imaging of TFs in the brain during different metabolic conditions, performing assays involving single-cell and bulk cell-type-specific assessments of gene expression and TF activity, including direct DNA binding within mouse brain tissue. Additionally, the position requires mouse colony management, including husbandry, identification, and genotyping, as well as conducting behavioral assessments in mice. Maintaining accurate records of animal activity, updating animal protocols, and maintaining laboratory equipment are also key responsibilities. The role also involves ordering and monitoring lab supplies, and managing sub-ledgers and ledgers for various accounts, including tracking expenditures, paying invoices, reconciling accounts, and ensuring appropriate use of funds.

Requirements

• Master's Degree with major coursework in field of assignment OR Bachelor's Degree with major coursework in field of assignment OR Completion of 2 years of college or specialized training in histology, serology, medical technology, etc. OR High School Diploma including courses in basic sciences or GED equivalent
• 1 year of experience as Research Assistant I or equivalent with Master's degree OR 2 years of experience including one (1) year as Research Assistant I or equivalent with Bachelor's degree OR 5 years of experience, including one (1) year as Research Assistant I or equivalent with two years of college OR 7 years of experience, including one (1) year as Research Assistant I or equivalent with High School Diploma or GED equivalent
• Work requires exercise of considerable judgment in application and interpretation of policy, procedures, or practices to work problems.
• Work requires extreme accuracy and precision in all phases of experimental investigation.
• Work requires thorough working knowledge of various types of equipment used in laboratory to which assigned.

Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and supervise assigned research projects, exercising responsibility for project performance and accountability for progress.
• Perform advanced scientific and medical research work, suggesting modifications or improvements to research project designs.
• Present original ideas for follow-up studies and recommend utilization of new or revised techniques and procedures.
• Construct, assemble, and operate experimental or specially designed laboratory apparatus and equipment.
• Assemble and analyze research data.
• Assist in the preparation of material for reports or publication.
• Supervise a group of Research Technicians and/or Research Assistants of a lower grade, making work assignments, advising on work procedures, and reviewing work.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Assist in stereotaxic delivery and retro-orbital injections of viral constructs to the brain for over-expression and knockdown of particular transcription factors (TFs).
• Conduct confocal imaging of TFs in the brain during different metabolic conditions.
• Perform assays involving single-cell and bulk cell-type-specific assessments of gene expression and TF activity, including direct DNA binding within mouse brain tissue.
• Manage mouse colonies, including husbandry, identification, and genotyping.
• Conduct behavioral assessments in mice.
• Maintain accurate written and database records of all animal activity.
• Update animal protocols.
• Maintain laboratory equipment.
• Order and monitor lab supplies.
• Maintain sub-ledgers and ledgers for various accounts, including tracking laboratory expenditures and encumbrances, paying invoices, reconciling accounts, and ensuring appropriate use of funds.

Benefits

• PPO medical plan, available day one at no cost for full-time employee-only coverage
• 100% coverage for preventive healthcare-no copay
• Paid Time Off, available day one
• Retirement Programs through the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS)
• Paid Parental Leave Benefit
• Wellness programs
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Qualified Employer

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED