Research Associate I, Neurobiology (Onsite)

UnitedHealth Group • Galveston, TX

140d • Onsite

About The Position

Research Associate I performs varying standardized laboratory assignments and experiments. This role is crucial for maintaining a functional research environment and executing experimental workflows directly tied to project aims. The associate will perform biophysical analysis of protein structure, stability, and interactions, and optimize protocols in bacterial and mammalian cells.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in basic science or equivalent
• No experience required
• Good knowledge of basic biochemical techniques (e.g. western blots, protein expression and purification, immunocytochemistry, cloning protein expression vectors in bacteria and mammalian cells, quantification of protein functional properties using biophysical techniques)
• Ability to independently tackle common daily minor issues with lab instruments and keep them properly calibrated.
• Good communication skills.

Nice To Haves

• May provide guidance to junior research staff.

Responsibilities

• Routine laboratory maintenance – including reagent preparation, inventory management, equipment upkeep, and adherence to safety and compliance standards.
• Execution of specific experimental workflows directly tied to the aims of the R01 project. This includes assisting with sample preparation, running standardized assays, collecting and organizing data, and supporting reproducibility across experimental replicates.
• Perform biophysical analysis of protein structure, stability (e.g Thermal Shift Assay) and protein-protein interactions using standard biophysical tools.
• Work on optimizing protocols in bacteria (e.g. E. coli) and mammalian cells (e.g. HEK 293T and C2C12 immortalized mouse) to ensure high efficiency and reproducibility.
• Adheres to internal controls established for department.
• Performs related duties as required.

What This Job Offers

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