The Altamirano lab at Houston Methodist Research Institute is offering a Research Assistant position focused on studying molecular mechanisms driving cardiovascular diseases and arrhythmias. Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide. Despite efforts to treat arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation or slow down the progression of heart failure, these diseases are on the rise worldwide. Our lab uses a unique multidisciplinary approach to study molecular mechanisms driving cardiac disease. We combine multiple approaches, including small and large animal models, clinical research in collaboration with Dr. Valderrabano, and newer technologies, such as engineered heart tissues made of iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes. Our lab is funded by two R01s and the Houston Methodist Cornerstone Award.

　　PEOPLE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

　　Maintains positive working relationships with Research stakeholders and customers. Actively participates in planning meetings and provides meaningful contributions to drive decision making and next steps.

　　Role models to team members effective communication skills, assisting in their development of such skills. Promotes 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 assigned system(s) in a comprehensive manner.

　　Fosters staff engagement by demonstrating active listening, requesting and acknowledging feedback, providing rationale when appropriate, and supporting organizational goals. Works towards improving department's employee engagement score.

　　SERVICE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

　　Follows technical instruction in setting up and conducting experiments, including biological assays, quantitative and qualitative analyses.

　　Effectively utilizes and operates laboratory and/or computer equipment.

　　Tabulates inventory and maintains supplies and equipment.

　　Collaborates with PI's and other research members to provide consistent research collection.

　　QUALITY/SAFETY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

　　Maintains records of all tests performed and data collected.

　　For laboratory positions: Makes minor modifications and/or repairs on laboratory equipment. Calibrates and operates a variety of laboratory equipment.

　　Assists with implementation and education of department-based safety initiatives, standards of practice and protocols. Develops skills of team members and continually assists with improving skills, performance and outcomes.

　　FINANCE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

　　Uses resources efficiently; does not waste supplies. Self-motivated to independently manage time effectively and prioritize daily tasks.

　　Provides data and figures for manuscripts and grants.

　　GROWTH/INNOVATION ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

　　Participates in the development or establishment of new laboratory and/or department procedures, including biological assays, quantitative and qualitative analysis.

　　Seeks opportunities to expand learning beyond baseline competencies with a focus on continual development. Completes and updates the individual development plan (IDP) on an on-going basis.

　　This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive; the employee will also perform other reasonably related business/job duties as assigned. Houston Methodist reserves the right to revise job duties and responsibilities as the need arises.

　　EDUCATION

　　Bachelor of Arts or Science in a related fieldWORK EXPERIENCE

　　Two years' relevant research or academic experienceLICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS - REQUIRED

　　May be required depending on position, refer to addendum if necessaryKNOWLEDGE, 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

　　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* NoTRAVEL**

　　Travel specifications may vary by department

　　May require travel within the Houston Metropolitan area No

　　May require travel outside Houston Metropolitan area No

　　Company Profile:

　　The Houston Methodist Academic Institute team science approach bridges the boundaries between medical specialties and research and development labs to advance the practice of medicine and population health. We innovate in health care delivery and technology by streamlining the path discoveries take into the clinic with inventive development and adoption practices. Our teams are also dedicated to training clinicians and researchers from around the world in translational medicine and advanced technology. Houston Methodist's primary academic affiliates are top-ranked Weill Cornell Medical College and the Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences for faculty appointments and graduate programs offered on our Houston campus.

　　The Institute oversees 600,000 sq ft of dedicated space and the administrative and operational infrastructure for basic and applied research and clinical trials, including more than 20 advanced tech core facilities, extramural funding management, regulatory and legal strategy and compliance, and product development and commercialization. This infrastructure is fully integrated with our hospital systems and supports more than 50,000 learners, 700 faculty, 2000 credentialed researchers, 6,000 research projects and clinical trials that creates innovative breakthroughs in human disease and the practice of medicine every day.

　　Houston Methodist is an equal opportunity employer inclusive of women, minorities, disabled persons and veterans.

　　Houston Methodist is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

　　Equal employment opportunity is a sound and just concept to which Houston Methodist is firmly bound. Houston Methodist will not engage in discrimination against or harassment of any person employed or seeking employment with Houston Methodist on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or other characteristics protected by law. VEVRAA Federal Contractor – priority referral Protected Veterans requested.