Research Technician I

We are seeking a motivated, organized, and detail-oriented Research Technician I with wet-lab and molecular biology experience to support a Houston-wide wastewater surveillance project in partnership with the Houston Health Department and Houston Water. A major focus of the lab is using wastewater monitoring to detect outbreaks and track infectious diseases.

About the role

The Research Technician I will work with a team of postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, and undergraduate students and will be trained in aspects of the wastewater monitoring project from sample collection through analysis. The position supports wastewater sample processing, nucleic acid extraction, and molecular assays using digital droplet PCR. Given the sensitive nature of the data collected, strong attention to detail and careful adherence to established laboratory procedures are essential.

This is a full-time, benefits-eligible, one-year term-limited position funded by a grant. Continued employment is contingent upon satisfactory performance, continued research needs, and the availability of funds.

Responsibilities

• Assists in conducting research and experiments.
• Collects and tracks basic data using spreadsheets and databases.
• Supports wastewater handling and sample filtration.
• Performs nucleic acid extraction and molecular assays using digital droplet PCR in accordance with established laboratory procedures.
• Assists in laboratory setup and day-to-day technical operations, including promoting safety, maintaining equipment, creating kits, and preparing reagents.
• Prepares procurement requests and orders materials and supplies.
• Manages sample and stock databases.
• Sets up and manages experiments and maintains research results for publications.
• Performs all other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Two or more (2+) years of experience in wastewater handling and sample filtration, DNA/RNA extraction, and Digital PCR, or related work. Academic experience may count toward this requirement.

Skills

• Good organizational skills and strong attention to detail.
• Ability to listen and communicate effectively, verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work independently and in team environments.
• Ability to conduct basic evaluation and analysis of data.
• Ability to maintain quality, safety, and infection-control standards.
• Molecular biology skills, including nucleic acid extraction and PCR.

Preferences

• Bachelor’s degree.
• BSL-2 laboratory experience.
• Experience with R or other data-analysis programs.

Workplace Requirements

This position is exclusively on-site, with all duties performed in person at Rice University in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. The role includes wet-laboratory work, wastewater sample handling, routine use of molecular biology equipment, and adherence to laboratory safety and infection-control procedures.

Pay

$18.00 – $21.19/hour (non-exempt, eligible for overtime).

Benefits

This is a benefits-eligible position. For details, visit Rice University Benefits.