Research Associate I

Computational Research Associate is available for a highly motivated candidate with a background in bioinformatics and a passion for exploring the epigenomic alterations in cancer progression and therapy resistance. The successful candidate will apply and analyze high-throughput sequencing datasets, including ChIP-seq, ATAC-seq, RNA-seq, and Hi-C, to uncover regulatory mechanisms in cancer.

A M.S. or Ph.D. degree in computational biology, bioinformatics, biostatistics, data science, or a related field is preferred. The candidate should have strong training in programming, particularly in R and/or Python, and a demonstrated interest in applying computational and statistical methods to complex biological datasets. Experience with single-cell data analysis is highly desirable. The successful applicant will join a collaborative and interdisciplinary research team and contribute to cutting-edge basic and/or translational research. Our research focuses on addressing important biological questions using advanced computational and statistical approaches. We highly value hard work, intellectual curiosity, innovation, teamwork, and professional development, while maintaining a strong commitment to a healthy work–life balance.

Projects will focus on the functional epigenomics with two directions towards: (1) understanding the role of epigenetic aberrations in early tumorigenesis, disease progression and the development of therapy resistance, and (2) searching for biomarkers and specific therapeutic targets for personalized cancer medicine. FLSA STATUS
Exempt

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION

• Master’s degree in related field or terminal degree with two years post-doctoral experience

EXPERIENCE

• Five years experience, depending on education level

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through ongoing 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
• Ability to work independently
• Capable of handling challenging/difficult situations
• Demonstrates sound judgment and executes analytical skills

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

PEOPLE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Assigns and reviews the work and outcomes for projects completed by assistants.
• Contributes to a positive work environment and contributes to a dynamic, team-focused work unit that actively helps one other to achieve optimal department results. Collaborates with all members of the research team by actively communicating and reporting pertinent information as it relates to an assigned system(s) in a comprehensive manner.
• Provides contributions towards the improvement of department scores for turnover/retention/employee engagement.

SERVICE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Analyzes data for research grants and publications. Prepares scientific presentations for department meetings.
• Completes/performs research experiments and incorporates novel procedures and methods into research experiments as appropriate (low to medium complexity).
• Maintains accurate records of all research and data collection.

QUALITY/SAFETY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Establishes and maintains quality control of project operations.
• Writes and maintains regulatory and safety committee applications/protocols.
• Identifies opportunities for corrective action and process improvement providing recommendations and contributes to meeting departmental and hospital targets for quality and safety.

FINANCE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Uses resources efficiently; does not waste supplies. Self-motivated to independently manage time effectively and prioritize daily tasks, minimizing incidental overtime.
• Assists with ensuring orders are on appropriate grants.

GROWTH/INNOVATION ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Participates in grant writing.
• Determines specific research project goals and objectives to be attained. Assumes responsibility and oversight for those goals and objectives.
• Seeks opportunities to identify developmental needs of self and takes appropriate action. Ensures own career discussions occur with appropriate management. Completes and updates the individual development plan (IDP) on an ongoing 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

Work Shift:

1 - Day (United States of America)

Job Category:

Non-clinical Houston Methodist is one of the nation’s leading health systems and academic medical centers. The health system consists of eight hospitals: Houston Methodist Hospital, its flagship academic hospital in the Texas Medical Center, seven community hospitals and one long-term acute care hospital throughout the Greater Houston metropolitan area. Houston Methodist also includes a research institute; a comprehensive residency program; international patient services; freestanding comprehensive care clinics, emergency care and imaging centers; and outpatient facilities. Come lead with us!

Houston Methodist is an Equal Opportunity Employer.