JOB SUMMARY
An entry level Research Technician position is available in the laboratory of Drs. Chih-Chi Andrew Hu and Chih-hang Anthony Tang with a focus on Immune Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Drug Discovery. The successful candidate will conduct independent laboratory research under the supervision of the Principal Investigator and interact daily with other highly motivated scientists. The position will focus on the study of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-associated stress signaling molecules to understand how they promote survival, metastasis and chemoresistance in cancer. A key component of this effort is the identification and development of new drug candidates targeting the ER stress response pathways for the treatment of cancer.
Requirements:
PRIMARY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
Job responsibilities labeled EF capture those duties that are essential functions of the job.
PEOPLE - 20%
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Demonstrates teamwork by responding positively to requests for assistance to achieve optimal department results. (EF)
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Collaborates with all members of the laboratory team by actively communicating, providing meaningful contributions and reporting pertinent information as it relates to assigned system(s) in a comprehensive manner. (EF)
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Uses peer-to-peer accountability towards improvement of department score for turnover/retention/employee engagement. (EF)
SERVICE - 20%
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Performs bench chemistry, microbiology, molecular biology or other scientific techniques according to protocol. (EF)
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Accurately conducts microscope work and basic image analysis. (EF)
QUALITY/SAFETY - 20%
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Conducts the safe collection and handling of human/animal tissue, blood or other biological specimens which includes animal handling and may include basic animal husbandry. (EF)
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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%
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Uses resources efficiently; does not waste supplies. Self-motivated to independently manage time effectively, reducing incidental overtime, and prioritizes daily tasks. (EF)
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Collaborates with management to order appropriate laboratory supplies and equipment within the department. (EF)
GROWTH/INNOVATION - 20%
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Participates in department initiatives, projects and shared governance activities. (EF)
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Trains in new techniques and procedures as they emerge, as appropriate. (EF)
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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.
Qualifications:
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
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High School diploma or equivalent education (examples include: GED, verification of homeschool equivalency, partial or full completion of post-secondary education, etc.)
EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSES AND REGISTRATIONS REQUIRED
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED
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Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through on-going skills, competency assessments, and performance evaluations
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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
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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
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Ability to communicate effectively and escalate utilizing problem-solving and decision-making skills
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Effective time management skills
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Experience with computer spreadsheets or databases
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Knowledge of Microsoft Office products
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Ability to utilize independent judgment
SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS
Business professional
Yes
On-Call*
No (for Non-Exempt or Exempt jobs)
Note that employees may be required to be on-call during emergencies (ie. Disaster, Severe Weather Event, etc) regardless of selection above.
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: __________________________
Company Profile:
Houston Methodist Academic Institute was formed to rapidly and efficiently translate discoveries made in the laboratory and the clinic into new diagnostics, therapies and treatments. The Research Institute was created in 2004 to provide the infrastructure and support for these endeavors and to house the technology and resources needed to make innovative breakthroughs in important areas of human disease. A 540,000-square-foot building dedicated to research and clinical trials, the Academic Institute houses over 2,110 credentialed researchers conducting 1,387 ongoing clinical protocols.