Research Specialist I

Special Instructions to Applicants: Please attach a cover letter and a curriculum vitae in the Supporting Documents section of the application.

About George R. Brown School of Engineering

The George R. Brown School of Engineering ranks among the top 20 undergraduate engineering programs (US News & World Report) and is strongly committed to nurturing the aspirations of faculty, staff, and students in an inclusive environment.

We seek greater representation of women, minorities, people with disabilities, and veterans in disciplines in which they have historically been underrepresented; to attract international students from a wider range of countries and backgrounds; to accelerate progress in building a faculty and staff who are diverse in background and thought, and we support an inclusive environment that fosters interaction and understanding within our diverse community.

Position Summary:

The Kortum Lab at Rice University in the department of Bioengineering seeks a Research Specialist I to support ongoing research and clinical studies involving molecular biology assays for cancer screening and genetic diagnostics. The Research Specialist will assist in processing clinical samples, organizing and maintaining sample banks, and preparing and maintaining stocks of sample standards. Our lab offers multidisciplinary training and involvement in a wide range of molecular diagnostic projects with clinical applications. More information about our lab's research projects may be found here:https://kortum.rice.edu/research

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply, and in particular, candidates with experience in nucleic acid amplification technologies.

Our department, Rice University's Department of Bioengineering, is consistently ranked among the top ten in the nation with resources and recognition aiding the success of our trainees. The department maintains close ties to nearby medical institutions including MD Anderson Cancer Center and Baylor College of Medicine. The campus is located in Houston - the fourth largest and one of the most diverse cities in the US.

Ideal Candidate Statement: The ideal candidate would have a strong interest in molecular biology methods and point-of-care diagnostics, as well as a desire to work on global health projects and assay development. Experimental skills in qPCR, DNA extraction, and cell culture are preferred. The candidate is expected to have strong communication and organizational skills, and to work with team members on advancing projects in a diverse and collaborative environment.

This position is funded by a grant, soft and/or restricted funds. Continued employment is contingent on the renewal of funding.

Proposed Hiring Range: $42,500-$52,900

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in bioengineering, biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, biology, chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field

• 1+ years experience in molecular biology techniques, either through a specialized degree or laboratory work experience

• In lieu of the experience requirement, additional related education, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year-for-year basis may be substituted

Skills:

• Listening, verbal, written communication, analytical, and research skills

• Good scientific and numerical skills with meticulous attention to detail and accuracy

• Ability to work in a team environment, participate actively, collaborate and motivate others in the lab

• Critical thinking, technical, and data collection skills

• Statistical and graphical analysis skills

• Ability to maintain quality, safety, and infection control standards in accordance with approved clinical research protocols

• Ability to plan and schedule effectively

• Ability to interact appropriately and respectfully with clinical personnel and study subjects

• Ability to occasionally travel internationally (if needed) in support of clinical studies

Essential Functions:

• Conducts specialized research and experiments in molecular biology technologies

• Develops amplification assays for maintaining high quality DNA standards

• Processes samples using nucleic acid extraction kits, gold standard testing, etc.

• Tracks and maintains sample banks organized and up-to-date

• Maintains ongoing cell culture with established cancer cell lines

• Communicates results through verbal presentations, written reports, and written articles submitted for publication in conjunction with PI

• Works closely with laboratory staff and graduate students

• Performs all other job duties as assigned

Additional Functions / Information

• This position is in-person on the Rice University campus

• At times when local clinical studies are ongoing, the Research Specialist will frequently go back and forth to collaborating institutions in the Texas Medical Center adjacent to the Rice campus to receive, prepare and/or test clinical samples. Point-of-care diagnostics projects may involve clinical collaborations with MD Anderson Cancer Center and Baylor College of Medicine.

• At times when clinical studies are ongoing outside of Houston, the Research Specialist may occasionally travel to collaborating clinical sites to assist in assay development and validation. Current point-of-care diagnostics projects involve clinical sites in the Rio Grande Valley, TX and Mozambique.

Rice University HR | Benefits: https://knowledgecafe.rice.edu/benefits-overview

Rice Mission and Values: Mission and Values | Rice University

Rice University is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity at all levels. It considers for employment qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status.