Research Assistant/ Laboratory Technician

Headlands Research • Brownsville, TX

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Headlands Research is seeking a Research Assistant/ Laboratory Technician for its clinical research site, Headlands Horizon LLC, in Brownsville, Texas. This is a regular, full-time employee position performed onsite; remote and hybrid work are not available. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The role reports to the Site Director and supports clinical research studies through laboratory operations, patient visit assistance, specimen handling, accurate documentation, and compliance with applicable regulations and study protocols.

The position is part of a growing clinical research network focused on high-quality data, patient-centered care, and advancing medical treatments. The Research Assistant/ Laboratory Technician works closely with coordinators, investigators, and clinical staff to support efficient, protocol-compliant study visits and may assist with broader research activities as needed.

Requirements

• Current certification as a phlebotomist within the state of Texas.
• High proficiency in venipuncture, including independently performing draws and effectively navigating challenging sticks.
• Experience working with diverse patient populations; geriatric experience is described as a plus/required in the posting.
• Familiarity with medical terminology and basic laboratory procedures.
• Comfort working with laboratory equipment, documentation, and regulated processes.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities at once.
• Proficiency with basic computer systems such as Excel, Outlook, EMRs, or similar tools.
• Comfort using multiple electronic data-entry systems.
• A team-first mindset and willingness to assist wherever needed.
• Strong time-management skills and ability to work in a fast-paced, regulated environment.
• Excellent interpersonal skills when interacting with participants, providers, and sponsors.
• Passion for improving patient outcomes through research.

Nice To Haves

• Clinical research experience.
• Experience handling specimen processing, shipping, or laboratory inventory.
• Interest in growing into a Clinical Research Coordinator or laboratory leadership role.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day laboratory activities, maintaining a safe, smooth, timely, clean, organized, and inspection-ready lab environment.
• Manage laboratory inventory, supplies, and kit preparation across multiple studies.
• Perform phlebotomy, specimen collection, and specimen processing, including centrifuging, aliquoting, and labeling.
• Conduct point-of-care testing, such as urine drug screens and pregnancy tests.
• Assist with patient visits, including vital signs, ECGs, and study-related procedures.
• Support more advanced clinical activities over time, including infusion monitoring under supervision.
• Handle specimen shipping in accordance with IATA guidelines and maintain detailed logs and documentation.
• Accurately record laboratory data in electronic systems, including eCRFs and CRIO.
• Ensure compliance with GCP, OSHA, HIPAA, and study protocols.
• Support audit readiness and quality control efforts.
• Work with coordinators, investigators, and clinical staff to support study visits and help visits run efficiently and according to protocol.
• Support broader research activities when needed.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).
• Paid time off (PTO).
• Company holidays.
• Disability, accident, and life insurance options.
• 401(k) plan with company match.
• Annual performance incentives.
• Competitive pay.
• Mission-driven culture focused on advancing medicine and improving patient outcomes.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed