Research Associate

RESEARCH ASSOCIATE

SUMMARY

The Rajagopalan Lab is in the Department of Internal Medicine and uses mouse models to better understand energy regulation during infection.  This position would conduct experiments as determined by the principal investigator, performing data analysis, assembling figures for publication, and managing the mouse colony. Ideal candidates for this role would have experience in immunology and flow cytometry, a demonstrated aptitude for learning new techniques, and excellent communication and organizational skills. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Recommends and/or initiates new or modified procedures and techniques based upon latest developments in assigned field or analysis of research data.

2. Performs computer programming for accumulation and analysis of research data.

3. Designs, constructs, repairs, or modifies electronic and/or mechanical equipment or apparatus used in experiments and research projects.

4. Instructs medical students, graduate students, residents, or other laboratory personnel of lower grade with respect to techniques, procedures, and equipment utilized in research or experiments.

5. Assists principal investigator and other professional personnel in writing of reports and papers for publication.

6. May provide working supervision to employees of lower grade engaged in performance of variety of difficult and complex laboratory work tasks.

7. Performs other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

1. Masters degree with major coursework in field of assignment and three (3) years of laboratory experience including at least two years at level of Research Assistant II or equivalent.

2. Bachelor's degree with major coursework in field of assignment and four (4) years of laboratory experience including two years at level of Research Assistant II or equivalent.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES

Ideal candidates will have experience in flow cytometry, whole tissue RNA-sequencing, and other immunological techniques.

Works requires animal handling competency and breeding. Prior experience with managing a mouse colony is ideal. 

Work requires thorough knowledge of various types of equipment used in laboratory to which assigned.

Work requires extreme accuracy in all phases of research and experimental investigation.

Work requires exercise of considerable judgment in application of policy, procedures, or techniques to work problems.

The following is the acronym, "PACT", and is fundamental to all non clinical positions at UT Southwestern Medical Center:

 P-Problem Solving: Employees take ownership in solving problems effectively, efficiently, and to the satisfaction of customers, or managers. They show initiative in addressing areas of concern before they become problems.

 A-Ability, Attitude and Accountability: Employees exhibit ability to perform their job and conduct themselves in a professional and positive manner reflecting a professional environment readily assuming obligations in a dependable and reliable manner.

 C-Communication, Contribution, and Collaboration: Who are our Customers? Anyone who requests our help, needs our work product, or receives our services. Employees focus on customer service with creative solutions while improving the customer experience through clear, courteous, and timely delivery and communication. Sharing ideas with others helps expand our contribution to department goals.

 T-Teamwork: Employees work to contribute to the department’s success by supporting co-workers, promoting excellence in work product and customer service, and in maintaining a satisfying, caring environment for each other.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed primarily in laboratory area. Working conditions involve moderate exposure to one or more disagreeable elements such as heat, cold, fumes, odors, or hazardous equipment or materials.

Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents in lieu of stated minimum require prior approval of the Vice President for Human Resources Administration, or his/her designee.

This position is security-sensitive and thereby subject to the provisions of Texas Education Code §51.215.