Research Associate, Children's Research Institute

As a Research Associate in the Regina Shin Lab at the Children's Research Institute, your primary responsibilities will include managing lab organization, overseeing inventory supplies, and supporting various research projects. You'll also have the opportunity to design new procedures, perform data analysis, and instruct students and other lab personnel on research techniques. Collaboration and communication are key components of this position, as you will be working closely with the principal investigator and other team members.

To qualify for the Research Associate position at the Children's Research Institute, you must have a Master’s degree in a relevant field with at least three years of laboratory experience, or a Bachelor’s degree with four years of lab experience. Experience at the level of Research Assistant II or an equivalent role is also essential. Strong technical skills in laboratory procedures, data analysis, and possibly computer programming will benefit candidates.

The work culture in the Regina Shin Lab at the Children's Research Institute is vibrant and supportive, emphasizing teamwork, collaboration, and fun. The lab is relatively new, and the team is keen on creating an environment where everyone’s ideas are valued, fostering both professional development and personal connections. You'll find a community that encourages innovation and provides a solid support system as you grow in your research career.

At the Children's Research Institute, part of UT Southwestern, you will benefit from a comprehensive career growth framework that includes mentorship opportunities, ongoing training, and access to cutting-edge resources. The institute values innovation and offers a wealth of professional development opportunities, ensuring that you can advance your skills and career in a nurturing environment committed to research excellence.

UT Southwestern offers a competitive benefits package for Research Associates that includes health insurance from day one, generous paid time off, retirement plans, wellness programs, tuition reimbursement, and even parental leave. Additionally, they qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF), making it a great place to work for those looking to balance professional pursuits with personal well-being.

In a busy research lab, I prioritize tasks by first assessing deadlines and the importance of each project. I use a combination of to-do lists and electronic task managers to keep track of ongoing projects, scheduling regular check-ins with team members to discuss priorities. This approach ensures that critical tasks receive appropriate attention while still allowing flexibility to address unexpected issues that may arise.

Certainly! In my previous role, I gained extensive experience with techniques such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, and cell culture. I've also worked with microscopy and flow cytometry to analyze cellular interactions. My goal is always to maintain high standards of accuracy and safety while conducting experiments, ensuring reliable data collection for our research objectives.

I believe effective communication is key to supporting collaborative research efforts. I prioritize regular team meetings to share progress and address challenges. I also encourage an open-door policy for brainstorming and discussing ideas. Additionally, I leverage collaborative tools like shared documents and project management software to ensure everyone is aligned and has access to necessary resources.

When facing setbacks in my research, I analyze the issue critically to understand what went wrong and why. I then consult with colleagues or mentors for guidance, as fresh perspectives can often lead to solutions. I also believe it's vital to maintain a positive attitude, viewing challenges as opportunities for learning and growth. This mindset helps me remain resilient and motivated.

I have had the pleasure of training new lab personnel and interns in my previous role. I focus on clearly explaining procedures, providing hands-on demonstrations, and fostering an environment where questions are welcomed. I also assess their understanding through feedback and encourage continuous learning to help them grow in their skills while ensuring the team's success.

Data analysis is integral to my research process as it informs our understanding of experimental outcomes and guides subsequent experiments. I utilize various statistical software and programming languages, such as Python and R, to analyze data effectively. I also ensure that I interpret data accurately to draw valid conclusions that contribute to our overarching research goals.

I am deeply interested in the research focus of the Shin Lab, particularly on intracellular dynamics and metabolic disorders. This area excites me as it has significant implications for understanding cancer and other diseases. Additionally, I value the collaborative culture of the lab and am eager to contribute to a team that shares a commitment to scientific excellence and innovation.

Ensuring compliance with safety protocols is a high priority for me. I always follow existing guidelines and standard operating procedures. I participate in safety training sessions and proactively communicate any safety concerns with my team. I also keep my workspace organized to minimize risks and encourage others to do the same, fostering a culture of safety within the lab.

In my previous position, I worked on a project investigating the effects of a novel compound on cellular metabolism in cancer cells. By designing experiments and performing relevant assays, we uncovered significant insights into the metabolic pathways involved. This project required collaboration across various disciplines and culminated in a publication, which was a rewarding experience that showcased the impact of our findings.

To stay current with the latest research, I regularly read scientific journals and attend relevant conferences. I also engage with online communities and forums where scientists discuss recent advancements. Furthermore, I actively participate in workshops and seminars that focus on emerging topics and techniques, ensuring that I can apply the most recent knowledge in my work.