Research Associate III - RNAcore

Overview

At Houston Methodist, the Research Associate III position is responsible for conducting advanced laboratory experiments on research projects with little to no supervision. This position is considered a subject matter expert utilizing advanced technical research skills and establishing test methods and procedures under the direction of Department Chairperson or Scientist (Faculty) and assists PI/faculty by leading a team of Research Associates, Assistants and Post Docs 0-2 in scientific activities. The Research Associate III position evaluates results of (or response to) process; summarizes data; provides communication of needs, issues to be addressed and all important information necessary to ensure scientific success. This position serves as liaison between team members, management, and PI's, resolving more complex matters for the area.

 

About the Role:We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented scientist to join our RNAcore team in advancing RNA manufacturing processes. This role involves working in a GMP-regulated environment and contributing to the development and optimization of RNA production workflows.

 

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform process development activities within RNA manufacturing.
• Support routine DNA/RNA manufacturing operations as needed.
• Develop and adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Maintain accurate and detailed documentation of all processes.
• Lead/collaborate on process automation initiatives (e.g., liquid handling systems).
• Support the implementation of new technologies.

 

Qualifications:

• Experience in, or willingness to work within, a GMP-regulated environment.
• Hands-on experience in RNA process development.
• Familiarity with process automation tools and liquid handlers.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to documentation standards.
• Ability to work collaboratively and adapt to evolving project needs.

Houston Methodist Standard

PATIENT AGE GROUP(S) AND POPULATION(S) SERVEDRefer to departmental "Scope of Service" and "Provision of Care" plans, as applicable, for description of primary age groups and populations served by this job for the respective HM entity.

HOUSTON METHODIST EXPERIENCE EXPECTATIONS

• Provide personalized care and service by consistently demonstrating our I CARE values:
  • INTEGRITY: We are honest and ethical in all we say and do.
  • COMPASSION: We embrace the whole person including emotional, ethical, physical, and spiritual needs.
  • ACCOUNTABILITY: We hold ourselves accountable for all our actions.
  • RESPECT: We treat every individual as a person of worth, dignity, and value.
  • EXCELLENCE: We strive to be the best at what we do and a model for others to emulate.

• Practices the Caring and Serving Model

• Delivers personalized service using HM Service Standards

• Provides for exceptional patient/customer experiences by following our Standards of Practice of always using Positive Language (AIDET, Managing Up, Key Words)

• Intentionally collaborates with other healthcare professionals involved in patients/customers or employees' experiential journeys to ensure strong communication, ease of access to information, and a seamless experience

• Involves patients (customers) in shift/handoff reports by enabling their participation in their plan of care as applicable to the given job

• Actively supports the organization's vision, fulfills the mission and abides by the I CARE values

Responsibilities

PEOPLE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Assists PI/faculty by leading a team of Research Associates, Assistants and Post Docs 0-2 in scientific activities. Provides communication of needs, issues to be addressed and all important information necessary to ensure scientific success. Facilitates open, professional communication to achieve mutual understanding.

• Role models excellent, clear, and professional communication skills to achieve mutual understanding and problem resolution. Demonstrates a positive work environment and contributes to a team-focused work environment that actively helps one another achieve department goals. Ensures collaboration among all members of the research team by actively communicating and reporting pertinent information as it relates to assigned system(s) in a comprehensive manner.

• Coaches staff to use efficient and effective communication and fosters staff engagement by demonstrating active listening, requesting, and acknowledging feedback, making equitable decisions, providing rationale when appropriate, and supporting organizational goals. Initiates cont