JOB SUMMARY

At Houston Methodist, the Research Assistant III position is responsible for providing senior level of research support that may include scientific writing and data analysis. Work could be performed in either a laboratory or office environment. Under minimal supervision, the Research Assistant III will perform a wide variety of complex tasks requiring practical understanding of scientific techniques and advanced knowledge of scientific theory. This position is expected to assist scientists, both independently and collaboratively, with investigative procedures. The Research Assistant III performs various assays, imaging experiments and other technical duties to assist with laboratory and/or department research activities and may be required to work with animal models and/or human subjects.

PRIMARY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

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

PEOPLE - 20%

• Promotes a positive work environment and leads the team to be dynamic and a focused work unit that actively helps one other to achieve optimal department results. Collaborates with all members of the department by actively communicating and reporting data in a comprehensive manner. (EF)
• Participates in laboratory and/or department meetings. (EF)
• Role models excellent, clear and professional communication skills to achieve mutual understanding and problem resolution. Demonstrates a positive work environment and contributes to a team-focused work environment that actively helps one another achieve department goals. Collaborates with all members of the research team by actively communicating and reporting pertinent information as it relates to assigned system(s) in a comprehensive manner. (EF)

SERVICE - 20%

• Performs chemistry, microbiology, molecular biology or other scientific techniques with sufficient autonomy under the general experimental guidance of the Principal Investigator (PI). (EF)
• Assists with implementation and education of department-based safety initiatives and standards of practice. (EF)
• May perform collection of blood, tissue or other biological specimen. (EF)
• May perform bench chemistry, microbiology, molecular biology or other scientific techniques with sufficient autonomy under the general experimental guidance of the PI. (EF)

QUALITY/SAFETY - 30%

• Reviews work of research team. Collects, records, compiles and analyzes complex data. (EF)
• Leads the implementation and education of departmental based safety initiatives and standards of practice. (EF)
• Oversees equipment calibration, certification and maintenance agreements. (EF)

FINANCE - 10%

• Uses resources efficiently; does not waste supplies. Evaluates and reports on inventory levels. Self-motivated to independently manage time effectively and prioritize daily tasks. (EF)
• Contributes towards department financial targets, optimizing efficiency and other areas according to department specifications. (EF)

GROWTH/INNOVATION - 20%

• Participation in the development or establishment of new laboratory and/or department procedures. (EF)
• Trains in new techniques as they emerge as appropriate. (EF)
• Ensures own career discussions occur with appropriate management. Seeks opportunities to expand learning beyond baseline competencies with a focus on continual development. Completes and updates the individual development plan (IDP) on an on-going 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 Bachelor of Arts or Science in a related field

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

o Four years’ relevant experience in research and/or academic field

CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSES AND REGISTRATIONS REQUIRED

o May be required depending on position, refer to addendum if necessary

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

o Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through on-going 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 Demonstrates independent judgment and discretion to recognize problems, identify causes and take corrective action

o Demonstrates strong training, leadership and mentoring skills

o Ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects, quickly shift tasks and adapt to a rapidly changing environment

o Ability to offer suggestions and implement change to enhance efficiency and organization of department operations

SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Work Attire Yes/No

Uniform No

Scrubs Yes

Business professional Yes

Other (dept approved) No

On-Call* No

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: Work could be performed in either a laboratory or office environment.