Job Description
Job Title:  Research Assistant I
Division:  Pediatrics
Work Arrangement:  Onsite only
Location:  Houston, TX
Salary Range:  $47,372 - $55,731
FLSA Status:  Nonexempt
Work Schedule:  Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Summary

Performs responsible research work that involves planning and carrying out studies, and occasionally supervising smaller projects, in accordance with general guidance from a supervisor. This position focuses on understanding how genes are turned on or off through chemical changes to DNA—a process known as epigenetic regulation—and how this is influenced by the environment and linked to human diseases. Using mouse models and advanced genetic tools, the research aims to uncover how these processes work during early development, how they may go wrong in diseases like cancer, and whether environmental factors can affect these important biological systems.

Job Duties

  • Maintains and manages the laboratory’s mouse colony, including setting up breeding strategies and ensuring proper animal care in compliance with institutional guidelines.
  • Performs genotyping of mouse models using PCR and related molecular biology techniques.
  • Participates in the design and planning of animal studies in collaboration with the principal investigator and other team members.
  • Collects, compiles, and analyzes phenotypic data from mouse models to assess developmental, behavioral, or disease-related outcomes.
  • Conducts molecular biology experiments including PCR, Western blotting, and quantitative gene expression analyses (e.g., qPCR).
  • Develops, optimizes, and modifies laboratory protocols for culturing primary cells and organoids from mouse or human tissues.
  • Oversees the maintenance and proper functioning of laboratory equipment and ensures a clean, organized, and safe lab environment.
  • Supervises and mentors students and less experienced research staff, providing training in techniques and ensuring adherence to protocols and safety procedures.
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

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

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master's degree in a related field.

 

 

Baylor College of Medicine is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Equal Access Employer.

 

 

 

Requisition ID:  22716