Job Description

Summary

The Westbrook lab is seeking a talented research technician to work in an interdisciplinary environment on the development of new therapeutic strategies for cancer. The Research Technician I performs routine and specialized laboratory and animal research procedures in support of ongoing biomedical research projects. This position requires technical skills, scientific knowledge, and attention to detail to carry out established experimental protocols, maintain research animal colonies, collect and process biological samples, document results, and contribute to overall laboratory operations.

The successful candidate will work closely with investigators, laboratory personnel, veterinary staff, and collaborators to support studies utilizing mouse models and molecular biology techniques.

Some after hours and occassional weekend work may be required.

Job Duties

• Research Animal Colony Management
  • Manage breeding and experimental mouse colonies, including breeding setup, weaning, genotyping, health monitoring, colony maintenance, and generation of experimental cohorts.
  • Maintain accurate colony records and ensure compliance with institutional animal care and use guidelines.
• In Vivo Research Support
  • Perform animal procedures including dosing, treatments, blood collection, tumor measurements, imaging support, surgical assistance, tissue collection, and study endpoint procedures.
  • Assist with monitoring and documenting animal health and experimental outcomes.
• Molecular Biology and Sample Processing
  • Perform routine molecular and cellular biology techniques, including PCR-based genotyping, DNA and RNA isolation, protein extraction, and sample preparation for downstream analyses.
  • Process blood and tissue specimens according to established laboratory protocols.
  • Assist with data collection, organization, and basic analysis of experimental results.
• Laboratory Operations and Documentation
  • Document experimental procedures, results, and observations in laboratory records and databases.
  • Maintain treatment records, sample inventories, tissue repositories, and other research tracking systems.
  • Order, organize, and maintain laboratory supplies, reagents, and equipment.
  • Ensure laboratory and animal procedure areas remain organized, stocked, and compliant with established protocols.
• Team Collaboration and Training
  • Communicate effectively with laboratory members, collaborators, veterinary staff, and core facilities to support research activities.
  • Assist in training students, new laboratory personnel, and other staff on laboratory techniques, animal procedures, and workflows.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate's degree in a Basic Science or related field. Two years of related experience may substitute for degree requirement.
• One year of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences, Animal Science, or a related field.
• Experience managing mouse breeding colonies and maintaining detailed animal records.
• Experience with animal handling and in vivo research procedures.
• Experience with PCR, genotyping, DNA/RNA isolation, tissue processing, and other molecular biology techniques.
• Familiarity with animal research regulatory requirements and documentation practices.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple ongoing projects simultaneously.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and data management tools.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Work Authorization Requirement:

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.  Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of application and throughout the duration of employment. 

Baylor College of Medicine is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Equal Access Employer.

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