Research Assistant - Neurology u2013 EM Core Katona Lab

The Electron Microscopy Core of the Department of Neurology is looking for a Research assistant. Responsibilities of this role are: u2022Processing of TEM and SEM/vEM samples, including u2022Receiving and logging samples and requests u2022Embedding, sectioning and contrasting u2022Archiving material and data u2022Communicate with users in a clear and professional manner u2022Assisting users with microscopes u2022Assisting in consultations and education of users u2022Assisting with dissemination of data and results to users u2022Monitoring the status of the microscopes and other core equipment u2022Maintains clear and accurate documentation of the protocols, instrumentation logs, and collected data u2022Initiates purchase of supplies and maintains inventory consumables for the facility Work experience: u2022Previous experience in sample preparation and with the use of scanning and/or transmission electron microscope as well as sample preparation is desirable. FLSA STATUS Exempt QUALIFICATIONS EDUCATION + Bachelor of Arts or Science in a related field EXPERIENCE + None SKILLS AND ABILITIES + Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through on-going skills, competency assessments, and performance evaluations + 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 + 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 + Works well in a team environment, as well as independently, with minimal supervision + Ability to prioritize frequently, quickly shift tasks, and adapt to a rapidly changing environment ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS PEOPLE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS + Actively participates in research planning meetings and provides meaningful contributions that drive decision-making and clearly identifies next steps. + Demonstrates teamwork by responding positively to requests for assistance achieve optimal department results. + Uses peer-to-peer accountability towards improvement of department score for turnover/retention/employee engagement. SERVICE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS + Performs technical laboratory research. + Accurately follows technical instruction in setting up and conducting experiments, including biological assays, quantitative and qualitative analyses. + Provides updates on assigned experiments and research outcomes. QUALITY/SAFETY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS + Maintains records of all tests performed and data collected. + Ensures safe operation of appropriate laboratory equipment. + Identifies opportunities for corrective action and process improvement providing recommendations; contributes to meeting department and hospital targets for quality and safety. FINANCE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS + Uses resources efficiently; does not waste supplies. Evaluates and reports on inventory levels. Self-motivated to independently manage time effectively and prioritize daily tasks. + Assists department management in product evaluations and utilization of existing products. GROWTH/INNOVATION ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS + Participation in the development or establishment of new laboratory procedures, including biological assays, quantitative and qualitative analysis. + Trains in new techniques as they emerge as appropriate. + Seeks opportunities to expand learning beyond baseline competencies with a focus on continual development as a researcher. Completes and updates the individual development plan (IDP) on an on-going basis. SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS WORK ATTIRE + Uniform: No + Scrubs: Yes + Business professional: Yes + Other (department approved): No ON-CALL _Note that employees may be required to be on-call during emergencies (ie. Disaster, Severe Weather Events, etc) regardless of selection below._ + On Call No TRAVEL _Travel specifications may vary by department_ + May require travel within the Houston Metropolitan area No + May require travel outside Houston Metropolitan area No QUALIFICATIONS EDUCATION + Bachelor of Arts or Science in a related field EXPERIENCE + None Company Profile: Houston Methodist Academic Institute oversees the Education Institute and Research Institute. The Academic Institute aligns our research and education initiatives in service to the clinical mission, providing solutions that answer the call for new technologies and skills our clinicians need for patient care. Houston Methodist Education Institute coordinates our primary academic affiliation with Weill Cornell Medicine and other joint programs, including the Engineering Medicine Program at Texas A&M University Intercollegiate School of Engineering Medicine. The Education Institute also oversees continuing medical education and graduate medical education, and supports trainees in residence for medical, nursing, allied health and research education programs. Houston Methodist Research Institute supports research programs and infrastructure that enable faculty across the system to bring new scientific discoveries to patients as rapidly as possible through the full cycle of a cure from conceptual bench research, to prototyping and development, to clinical trials and FDA approval. The Research Institute supports clinical research protocols and extramurally funded translational research programs. Houston Methodist is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Created: 2026-04-01