Research Technician II, Orthopaedic Surgery

UT Southwestern Medical Center • Dallas, TX

16h • Onsite

About The Position

The Hernandez Lab explores structural, cellular, and mechanobiological aspects of sexual dimorphism and sex hormones in cartilage health and osteoarthritis. Working in close collaboration with engineers and orthopedic surgeons, our research examines how sex-specific differences in the knee joint may contribute to higher incidence and severity of osteoarthritis in women later in life. Our research team also investigates the role hormones play in the production of cartilage extracellular and pericellular matrices throughout the lifespan. We use atomic force microscopy to measure the nanomechanical properties of cells and tissues, and bioreactors to investigate chondrocyte mechanotransduction. We are searching for a Research Assistant I. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in cell culture, confocal microscopy, and molecular biology, and have excellent communication skills. Additionally, preferred skills are histology, tissue sectioning, and knowledge or experience working in bioengineering. Knowledge in tissue mechanics and musculoskeletal biology is a plus.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree With major coursework in field of assignment and no experience
• Two (2) years of college with emphasis in coursework in field of assignment
• High School Diploma or GED equivalent
• No experience required with Bachelor's Degree
• 2 years of laboratory experience at level of Laboratory Technical Assistant or equivalent with two (2) years of college
• 4 years of laboratory experience including two years at level of Laboratory Technical Assistant or equivalent with High School Graduation or GED equivalent
• Proven experience in cell culture
• Proven experience in confocal microscopy
• Proven experience in molecular biology
• Excellent communication skills

Nice To Haves

• Histology
• Tissue sectioning
• Knowledge or experience working in bioengineering
• Knowledge in tissue mechanics
• Knowledge in musculoskeletal biology

Responsibilities

• Performs routine scientific and medical research work in science area such as biology, chemistry, physics, or other related scientific field.
• Assembles and/or operates various laboratory equipment and apparatus.
• Records research data in accordance with prescribed procedures, discussing results with supervisor.
• Assists in collection of data for project reports.
• Reads literature and confers with supervisor concerning implementation of new procedures.
• May plan for, and provide working supervision to, work of laboratory personnel of lower grade engaged in limited phase of research project.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• PPO medical plan, available day one at no cost for full-time employee-only coverage
• 100%25 coverage for preventive healthcare-no copay
• Paid Time Off, available day one
• Retirement Programs through the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS)
• Paid Parental Leave Benefit
• Wellness programs
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Qualified Employer

What This Job Offers

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