Senior Research Scientist - McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics at UTHealth in Houston, Texas

Job Description:

Position Summary:

Design and conduct research in the genome sequencing and genomics-based studies. The primary responsibilities include development of protocols for the library preparation and sequencing and independently perform an entire process of NGS and related omics work. Pick up biospecimens, if necessary. Maintain instruments and lab supplies Communicate with research group and vendors to solve technical problems. Organize training and educational events. Supervise laboratory technician(s) and other core personnel. Support supervisor in preparation of grant applications, account managing, and collaborations when needed.

Coordinates, supervises, and directs major biomedical research projects. Provides advanced scientific and technical expertise to contribute to the formulation, implementation, and analysis of techniques, procedures, and results of research projects.

Position Key Accountabilities:

• Follow the established protocols to perform NGS and related genomics services.
• Maintains accurate and timely records including notebooks, records, databases.
• Manage research protocols and research data.
• Pick up the biospecimen.
• Designs, executes, and interprets the results of complex biomedical and scientific experiments using advanced equipment, complex technique methods, and procedures. Performs research to provide clues for health care professionals to utilize in preventative medicine and in the diagnosis and treatment of patients in the future.
• Formulates and implements new research techniques to enable projects to be carried out efficiently and ensures successful completion of assigned goals.
• Stays abreast of new biomedical progress and technological advances in order to upgrade research skills and produce better and faster results. Researches literature for new biomedical progress and technological advances to upgrade research skills.
• Collaborates and submits research findings for publication to advance the scientific knowledge of others. Results and findings are submitted through written research papers, public presentation at local or national meetings, or personal exchanges with faculty member and other scientists.
• Assists the principal investigator in obtaining grant funds and other types of financial support.
• Maintains lab equipment, assists in necessary repairs, and promotes a safe laboratory environment. Ensures direct reports follow safety procedures and attends basic safety training courses.
• Manages Human Resources activities for direct reports in regards to: recruiting and selection, hiring and termination, training, professional development, mentoring, counseling, performance evaluations, and salary planning.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Certification/Skills:

• Excellent knowledge and skills in molecular biology experiments, highly preferred.
• Problem-solving, quick learner, and able to work independently in the wet lab.
• Knowledge of NGS platforms, highly preferred.
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, scientific professionalism, and deadlines.

• Doctorate Degree.

• Four (4) years of experience in related research environment and have verifiable publications within the field of the research project.
• Experience in molecular biology experiments, highly preferred.

Exerts up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or negligible amount of force constantly to move objects.
This position may include work involving potentially hazardous chemical, biological or radioactive agents.

Security Sensitive:

This job class may contain positions that are security sensitive and thereby subject to the provisions of Texas Education Code § 51.215

Residency Requirement:

Employees must permanently reside and work in the State of Texas.