UTHealth Houston·Houston, Texas
Conduct research projects involving the in vitro culture of Treponema pallidum using genomics and molecular biology approaches. Responsible for performing experiments with laboratory animals, analyzing data, and maintaining accurate laboratory documentation.
The laboratory of Dr.
Steven Norris at UTHealth McGovern Medical School hiring for a full-time Research Assistant to join their team of professionals.
The laboratory uses a combination of genomics, genetics, bioinformatics and molecular biology approaches to study the biology of Treponema pallidum, the causative agent of syphilis.
The RA II will be responsible for conducting projects involving in vitro culture of Treponema pallidum, working with other laboratory personnel to perform and analyze experiments.
The candidate must be willing to perform experiments utilizing laboratory animals (rabbits) and will be trained in required procedures.
Presents experiments in lab meetings.
Answers questions or resolves problems regarding routine or more complex duties.
Complies with all governmental and University policies, rules, regulation and codes.
May participate in continuing education programs, workshops and seminars.
Under general direction of senior research staff, conducts activities to support research projects. Research activities may include some or all of the following:, handle biological samples, perform laboratory experiments and activities, and data collection. Exercises judgment within defined procedures and practices. Position Key Accountabilities: Conducts research activities, under general direction, according to research. Research activities may include some or all of the following: cell culture, microbial culture, traditional molecular biology experiments and activities, working with laboratory animals (rabbits and mice). Under general direction, performs laboratory experiments and activities to support research objectives. Maintains accurate and timely documentation including notebooks, records, databases, etc. as needed by the research project. May prepare graphic representations of data results. Maintains clean laboratory equipment and/or work area to ensure a safe and efficient work environment. Under general direction, monitors laboratory and/or other supplies to ensure sufficient inventory to support research projects in a timely manner. Stays abreast of new and updated procedures and protocols for research laboratory. Must maintain compliance with required training. May participates in continuing education programs, seminars, and workshops. As needed, coordinates the work of laboratory technicians, support staff and other assistants to ensure efficient, timely and high quality results. Answers questions or resolves problems regarding routine or more complex duties. Performs other duties as assigned.
Requires a Bachelor's degree and at least one year of related experience in a research or clinical laboratory environment. Candidates must be willing to work with laboratory animals such as rabbits and mice.
Market context
In Texas, Research Assistant II/III roles in pathology and lab settings are often tied to active clinical, academic, or translational research programs, so candidates with hands-on lab experience tend to draw attention. These positions are competitive because employers usually want a bachelor's degree, prior research or clinical laboratory experience, and comfort working with rabbits and mice. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your animal-handling background and lab techniques match the posting before applying.