Summary

The RTSS Core Lab (Research Tissue Support Services) is seeking a Research Assistant I to join our team.  In this challenging role, you will perform many tasks that directly support Clinical and Research Studies at TXCH.  The successful candidate will have laboratory experience (clinical or research), keen attention to detail, and above-average communication and computer skills.

The RTSS Core Lab interacts with other TXCH Cores on a daily basis, as well as with PACU, Surgery and Pathology to facilitate acquisition of specimens for immediate clinical and research use, as well as cyropreservation and storage for future use.  Excellent communication skills, teamwork and customer service mindset, analytical mind, and accurate data entry skills are also essential for success in this position.  Work hours are Monday through Friday, 9am to 6pm, with a one-hour meal period. 

Job Duties

• Performs work that requires planning, completing and occasionally supervising limited research activities in accordance with general plans approved by the supervisor.
• Accepts and processes research samples.
• Prepares  labels and shipping documents.
• Documents chain-of-custody on all samples entering the lab.
• Maintains specimen biorepository records and verifying storage locations and conditions are in compliance with best practices and the SOPs.  
• Occasional duties may include teaching and/or supervising work performed by less experienced staff and updating routine policies and procedures whenever necessary.  
• May assist Assistant Laboratory Director with special projects, ongoing QA/QC, preventive maintenance of equipment and assisting research personnel with their specimens and procedures.  
• Also responsible for maintaining chemical/lab safety and a professional work environment.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a Basic Science or a related field.
• Two years of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in basic science or a related field.
• Laboratory experience handling human tissues/fluids required.  
• Use of routine lab equipment (centrifuge, hood, pipettes, PPE, etc.) is required and experience with cell culture and/or cell separation techniques are strongly preferred.
• Laboratory and/or Specimen Biorepository experience a strong plus.