JOB SUMMARY

At Houston Methodist, the Research Associate I position is responsible for conducting laboratory experiments on research projects within well-defined guidelines. This position provides technical research skills and establishes test methods and procedures under the direction of Department Chairperson or Scientist (Faculty). The Research Associate I position evaluates results of (or response to) process; summarizes data.

PRIMARY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Job responsibilities labeled EF capture those duties that are essential functions of the job.

PEOPLE - 20%

• Assigns and reviews the work and outcomes for projects completed by assistants. (EF)
• Contributes to a positive work environment and contributes to a dynamic, team-focused work unit that actively helps one other to achieve optimal department results. Collaborates with all members of the research team by actively communicating and reporting pertinent information as it relates to an assigned system(s) in a comprehensive manner. (EF)
• Provides contributions towards the improvement of department scores for turnover/retention/employee engagement. (EF)

SERVICE - 20%

• Analyzes data for research grants and publications. Prepares scientific presentations for department meetings. (EF)
• Completes/performs research experiments and incorporates novel procedures and methods into research experiments as appropriate (low to medium complexity). (EF)
• Maintains accurate records of all research and data collection. (EF)

QUALITY/SAFETY - 20%

• Establishes and maintains quality control of project operations. (EF)
• Writes and maintains regulatory and safety committee applications/protocols. (EF)
• Identifies opportunities for corrective action and process improvement providing recommendations and contributes to meeting departmental and hospital targets for quality and safety. (EF)

FINANCE - 20%

• Uses resources efficiently; does not waste supplies. Self-motivated to independently manage time effectively and prioritize daily tasks, minimizing incidental overtime. (EF)
• Assists with ensuring orders are on appropriate grants. (EF)

GROWTH/INNOVATION - 20%

• Participates in grant writing. (EF)
• Determines specific research project goals and objectives to be attained. Assumes responsibility and oversight for those goals and objectives. (EF)
• Seeks opportunities to identify developmental needs of self and takes appropriate action. Ensures own career discussions occur with appropriate management. Completes and updates the individual development plan (IDP) on an ongoing basis. (EF)

This job description is not intended to be all inclusive; the employee will also perform other reasonably related business/job duties as assigned. Houston Methodist reserves the right to revise job duties and responsibilities as the need arises.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

o Master of Science degree

Or Terminal Degree with minimum two years post-doctoral experience, preferred

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

o Five years experience, depending on education level

CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSES AND REGISTRATIONS REQUIRED

o None

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

o Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through ongoing skills, competency assessments, and performance evaluations

o Sufficient proficiency in speaking, reading and writing the English language necessary to perform the essential functions of this job, especially with regard to activities impacting patient or employee safety or security

o Ability to effectively communicate with patients, physicians, family members and co-workers in a manner consistent with a customer service focus, and application of positive language principles

o Ability to work independently

o Capable of handling challenging/difficult situations

o Demonstrates sound judgment and executes analytical skills

SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Work Attire Yes/No

Uniform No

Scrubs Yes

Business professional Yes

Other (dept approved) No

On-Call* No (for Non-Exempt or Exempt jobs)

Travel**

May require travel within No

Houston Metropolitan area

May require travel outside No

of Houston Metropolitan area

**Travel specifications may vary by department.

Please note any other special considerations to this job: Ability to work in office setting, involving the use of office equipment and supplies. Ability to work in a laboratory and/or animal research facility. Work in animal research facility requires health evaluation and approval by the HM Employee Health or HM Wellness department. _