Research Associate I

University of Texas at Austin

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Dell Medical School is seeking a Research Associate I. This position is temporary with an end date of June 1st, 2027, renewable based upon availability of funding, work performance, and progress toward goals. The Research Associate I supports scientific research by conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. This role typically reports to a Principal Investigator or Senior Research Scientist and works closely with other research staff, including Research Technicians and Laboratory Assistants. The Research Associate I is responsible for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of experimental results, contributing to research publications, and assisting in the development of new research protocols.

Requirements

Requires a Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Psychiatry, Psychology, Neuroscience, Public Health, or other related discipline.
At least 1 year of research experience.
Meticulous in maintaining accurate records and ensuring the precision of experiments, excellent attention to detail.
Effective in conveying research findings and collaborating with team members.
Proficient in using laboratory equipment and scientific software (i.e. Excel, RedCap, R, PsychoPy, etc.), troubleshooting experimental issues.
Coordinating experiments with a diverse team of colleagues, participating in team discussions, supporting team goals.
Comfortable interacting with people living with serious mental illness.
Outstanding organizational and time management skills.

Nice To Haves

Master's Degree
Bachelor’s Degree with 2 years of relevant laboratory experience, including experience with specific techniques used in the research area.
Certification as a Clinical Research Associate (CRA) from the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) or similar certification.
Human Subjects Research and/or Good Clinical Practice certified.
Phlebotomy licensure/certification.
Level 1 or Level 2 MRI-certified.

Responsibilities

Perform laboratory experiments under the guidance of senior researchers.
Recruit, pre-screen, and screen potential participants utilizing approved methods and appropriate eligibility criteria.
Obtain informed consent of participants following GCP guidelines.
Collect and analyze data using various scientific techniques, including but not limited to, psychological measures, neuroimaging measures, biospecimens (blood, urine, saliva, etc.), and neurocognitive measures.
Data entry and maintenance of accurate records of experimental procedures and results.
Analyze research data using statistical software and tools.
Interpret results and prepare reports for review by senior researchers.
Assist in the preparation of research publications, presentations, and manuscripts (authorship will depend on candidate’s initiative and relevant contribution to work).
Ensure the laboratory is clean, organized, and stocked with necessary supplies.
Follow safety protocols and procedures.
Work closely with other research staff to coordinate experiments and share findings.
Participate in team meetings and provide updates on research progress.
Communicate effectively and professionally with external collaborators and stakeholders.
Assist in the development and optimization of research protocols.
Review and update standard operating procedures (SOPs) as needed.
Ensure compliance with regulatory and ethical guidelines.
Assist with IRB submission and management by preparing necessary documentation, coordinating with IRB representatives, and ensuring timely submission and approval.
Conduct literature reviews to support ongoing research projects.
Summarize findings and present them to the research team.
Provide training and guidance to new research staff and interns.
Assist in the onboarding process for new team members.