Research Associate I, Basic Science and Translational Research (Galveston)

UTMB Health • Galveston, TX

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Research Associate I performs varying standardized laboratory assignments and experiments. This role involves conducting biological sample preparation and extraction for the analysis of small molecules and trace-level microplastics/nanoplastics in biological samples. The associate will perform sample preparation procedures, assist with the operation of analytical instrumentation, prepare chemical solutions, maintain laboratory equipment and documentation, and assist with data analysis.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in basic science or equivalent
• No experience required
• Biological Analysis
• Quantitative Analysis
• Qualitative Analysis
• Tabulation of Data
• Equipment Calibration
• Standard Laboratory Equipment
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Strong numerical and scientific skills, with demonstrated ability to accurately prepare solutions, dilutions, stock solutions, and multi-point calibration curves.
• Experience with biological sample preparation and extraction techniques, including SPE, LLE and protein precipitation.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research team.
• Strong time-management skills with the ability to plan, prioritize, and schedule multiple laboratory tasks efficiently.

Nice To Haves

• One or more years of practical experience in a bioanalytical or micro-/nanoplastic analytical laboratory.
• Experience with biological sample preparation, extraction, purification, and concentration techniques.
• Experience operating LC-MS/MS systems, such as Thermo Scientific TSQ Quantiva or Sciex API 4000, and/or Py-GC-MS instrumentation.

Responsibilities

• Conducting biological sample preparation and extraction for the analysis of small molecules and trace-level microplastics/nanoplastics in biological samples.
• Performing sample preparation procedures, including digestion, filtration, density separation, solid-phase extraction (SPE), liquid-liquid extraction (LLE), protein precipitation, purification, and concentration.
• Assisting with the operation of analytical instrumentation, including LC-MS/MS, and HPLC.
• Preparing chemical solutions, mobile phases, stock solutions, calibration standards, and quality control (QC) samples with high accuracy and precision.
• Maintaining and performing routine checks of laboratory equipment, including centrifuges, vacuum dryers, SPE manifolds, and pH meters.
• Maintaining laboratory documentation, including sample tracking logs, laboratory notebooks, standard operating procedures (SOPs), instrument logs, quality assurance (QA) records, and laboratory inventory.
• Assisting with data analysis, quality control, and interpretation of analytical results.
• Adheres to internal controls established by the department.
• Performs related duties as required.

Benefits

• EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY: UTMB Health strives to provide equal opportunity employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by institutional policy or by federal, state or local laws unless such distinction is required by law. As a Federal Contractor, UTMB Health takes affirmative action to hire and advance protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level