Summary

Baylor College of Medicine, in partnership with the Department of Pediatric Surgery at Texas Children’s Hospital, is seeking a Research Assistant to perform responsible research work that includes planning, execution, and occasional supervision of defined research projects in accordance with general direction provided by the supervisor.

This position supports a translational research laboratory focused on mechanobiology, epithelial signaling, and congenital lung disease. The work involves a combination of molecular, cell-based, tissue-based, and animal studies aimed at understanding how biomechanical forces regulate lung development and epithelial function.

The Research Assistant serves as the primary technical and operational support for the laboratory and plays a key role in enabling high-quality, reproducible research. Responsibilities include molecular cloning, mechanobiology assays, precision-cut lung slice (PCLS) systems, mRNA production, and coordination of animal studies. The role also includes oversight of laboratory operations, inventory management, and IACUC compliance to ensure continuity and regulatory adherence.

This position offers a high degree of independence and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to multiple active research projects. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with postdoctoral fellows, surgical research fellows, and students in a dynamic, team-oriented environment dedicated to scientific rigor, innovation, and productivity.

Job Duties

Data Management & Reporting 
• Collect, compile, and analyze experimental data with attention to accuracy, quality, and reproducibility.
• Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks and organized electronic data systems.
• Draft, update, and maintain IACUC protocols and amendments under investigator supervision.
• Prepare research summaries, figures, and reports for investigator review, lab meetings, and internal presentations.
• Assist in drafting technical content for abstracts, manuscripts, and grant-related documents as needed.

Compliance, Operations & Laboratory Management 
• Maintain laboratory organization, regulatory documentation, and compliance with BCM and TCH research and safety policies.
• Assist in drafting and maintaining IACUC protocols and amendments under investigator supervision.
• Coordinate routine equipment maintenance, calibration, and repair.
• Oversee inventory systems and coordinate procurement of laboratory supplies, reagents, and equipment.
• Ensure safe, efficient laboratory operations and adherence to biosafety standards.
• Technical experience ideally includes cell culture, pcr, western blot, pcr/qpcr, ihc, flow cytometry

Collaboration & Leadership 
• Work closely with investigators, postdoctoral fellows, surgical research fellows, students, and biobank staff to support research objectives.
• Participate in laboratory meetings, data review sessions, and troubleshooting discussions.
• Conduct literature and protocol reviews to support implementation of new technologies, assays, and workflows.
• Provide guidance and assign tasks to less experienced research or biobank personnel as needed.

Additional Responsibilities 
• Support continuous improvement of laboratory workflows and systems.
• Perform other related duties as assigned in support of the laboratory and research mission.

Minimum Qualifications

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

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree basic science or in a related field.
• Experience performing DNA extraction and/or PCR.
• Experience with nanoparticles, crispr cas9 is appreciated but not required.
• Experience operating liquid handlers or other automated laboratory equipment.
• Familiarity with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently within defined protocols and make sound operational decisions.