Research Technician I - Flow Cytometry

Baylor College of Medicine - Houston, TX

Full-time - Entry Level

Houston, TX

Educational Services

About the position

The Research Technician I position at Baylor College of Medicine is an entry-level role focused on supporting an orthopedic surgery-based lab engaged in basic and translational science. The technician will assist with experiments related to bone and cartilage stem cell biology, utilizing advanced techniques such as cell culture, histology, flow cytometry, and genetic analysis. This role provides significant learning opportunities and the potential for career advancement as skills and experience develop within a collaborative team environment.

Responsibilities

• Maintains an organized inventory of lab supplies, reagents, and equipment.
• Assists with placing orders for materials to ensure smooth lab operations, while keeping track of stock levels and shipment schedules.
• Participates in the daily upkeep of cell and tissue culture experiments.
• Ensures sterile technique, proper media changes, and overall viability of cultures.
• Monitors and documents cell growth and experimental progress.
• Performs a range of experiments that includes flow cytometry, histology, and biochemical assays.
• Follows standard operating procedures and protocols.
• Assists with sample preparation, data collection, and analysis of experimental results.
• Collects and processes tissue samples from surgeries.
• Handles tissue samples in accordance with proper biobanking protocols, including storing, digesting, and preparing samples for use in cell culture or for long-term storage in the lab's biobank.
• Assists research team with patients/study subjects' day-to-day coordination.
• Maintains accurate and detailed records of all experiments, procedures, and results in both electronic and paper formats.
• Ensures that all lab activities are properly documented in compliance with institutional and regulatory guidelines.
• Assists with the regular maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of lab equipment to ensure optimal performance and experimental accuracy.
• Works collaboratively with other lab members, providing assistance on larger projects as needed.
• Helps troubleshoot experiments, sharing knowledge of protocols, and assisting with data analysis.
• Assists in the onboarding and training of new lab members.
• Helps familiarize team with lab protocols, safety procedures, and best practices for maintaining cell cultures and conducting experiments.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Associate's degree in a Basic Science or related field, or two years of related experience may substitute for degree requirement.
• One year of relevant experience.

Nice-to-haves

• Excited about the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a research lab setting.
• Experience is helpful but not required, as training will be provided for all necessary techniques including cell culture, flow cytometry, and histology.
• Organized, detail-oriented, and eager to learn.
• Collaborative spirit interested in working on cutting-edge research in stem cell biology.

Benefits

• Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Equal Access Employer
• Supportive learning environment for all members of the Baylor community.