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Lab Research Associate Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Research Associate - Genotyping Technology

Alvin, TX · On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

... research environment. Essential Duties High-Throughput Plant Genotyping Production Systems ... Identify and advance lab process and systems innovation initiatives, to increase genotyping ...

Research Associate - Genotyping Technology

Alvin, TX · On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

... research environment. Essential Duties High-Throughput Plant Genotyping Production Systems ... Identify and advance lab process and systems innovation initiatives, to increase genotyping ...

Showing results 21-40

Lab Research Associate information

See Houston, TX salary details

$12

$21

$32

How much do lab research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab research associate in Houston, TX is $21.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $23.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a lab research associate do?

A Lab Research Associate supports scientific research by conducting experiments, analyzing data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They often assist senior researchers in designing studies, collecting samples, and performing routine tests. Their role is crucial in ensuring that experiments are conducted accurately and efficiently, following safety protocols and documentation standards. Lab Research Associates work in various settings, including universities, hospitals, and private research facilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lab research associate?

To thrive as a Lab Research Associate, you need a solid background in biology, chemistry, or a related field, usually with a bachelor's or master's degree and experience in laboratory techniques. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and protocols like PCR or chromatography is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills that set top performers apart. These capabilities ensure accurate results, maintain safety standards, and contribute to successful research outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by lab research associates when managing multiple experiments simultaneously?

Lab Research Associates often juggle several experiments at once, which can be challenging due to the need for precise timing, meticulous record-keeping, and coordination with other team members. Unexpected issues, such as equipment malfunctions or reagent shortages, may require quick troubleshooting and adaptability. Effective communication and organizational skills are essential to ensure that data is accurately collected and experiments are completed within deadlines. Collaborating closely with principal investigators and fellow researchers also helps in prioritizing tasks and sharing resources efficiently.

What is a lab research associate in a lab?

A lab research associate is a professional responsible for conducting experiments, collecting data, and analyzing results in a laboratory setting. They often work under the supervision of senior scientists and use tools like microscopes, lab equipment, and data analysis software to support research projects.

What qualifications do you need to be a lab research associate?

A lab research associate typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or related sciences. Laboratory skills, familiarity with research protocols, and attention to detail are important, and some positions may require experience with specific tools or techniques. Certifications or training in safety procedures can also be beneficial.

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Lab Research Associate jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Lab Research Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Research Associate job openings in Houston, TX as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,431 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Research Associate I- Flow Cytometry Core

Houston Methodist Academic Institute

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

The Houston Methodist Flow Cytometry Core is recruiting a full-time salaried research cytometry specialist to join our team. This shared resource lab supports the research laboratories of more than 70 principal investigators working in all aspects of biology from stem cell, cancer, immunology to biomarker research. The Houston Methodist Research Institute is in the heart of the Texas Medical Center.
Facility staff manage a busy schedule, operate equipment including Becton Dickenson AriaII and Discovery S8 sorters, an A5SE and Fortessa Analyzers, Cytek Aurora, Luminex LX200, Millipore 8-HT, Becton Dickenson A3 analyzer and Sony MA900 Sorter. In addition, staff will train users on the analyzers, troubleshoot instruments, develop new methodologies as needed per investigator requests, and assist in analyzing data.
This position requires excellent technical skills and teamwork with colleagues and researchers in operation and troubleshooting of flow cytometers and cell sorters. The successful candidate will be a self-motivated, hardworking, responsible individual, dedicated to high standards and integrity in line with Houston Methodist’s ICARE Values. Interest in customer education, customer training, and service is paramount. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required.
The individual must be capable of executing tasks in an organized manner in a busy core laboratory environment. The candidate will be offered many opportunities for career development and continuing education. Prior demonstrable knowledge of BD FACS Diva systems is preferred, especially with AriaII sorting systems. Tasks include; independent operation of cytometers and sorters, including setup and Q/C, daily monitoring and assisting with billing, maintain cleanliness of lab and inventory, perform regular data backups, and analyzes and prepares preliminary data files. Trains and/or assists research personnel in use of analysis software.
FLSA STATUS
Exempt
QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION
  • Master’s degree in related field or terminal degree with two years post-doctoral experience

EXPERIENCE
  • Five years experience, depending on education level

SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through ongoing 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
  • Ability to work independently
  • Capable of handling challenging/difficult situations
  • Demonstrates sound judgment and executes analytical skills

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
PEOPLE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Assigns and reviews the work and outcomes for projects completed by assistants.
  • Contributes to 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 an assigned system(s) in a comprehensive manner.
  • Provides contributions towards the improvement of department scores for turnover/retention/employee engagement.

SERVICE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Analyzes data for research grants and publications. Prepares scientific presentations for department meetings.
  • Completes/performs research experiments and incorporates novel procedures and methods into research experiments as appropriate (low to medium complexity).
  • Maintains accurate records of all research and data collection.

QUALITY/SAFETY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Establishes and maintains quality control of project operations.
  • Writes and maintains regulatory and safety committee applications/protocols.
  • Identifies opportunities for corrective action and process improvement providing recommendations and contributes to meeting departmental and hospital targets for quality and safety.

FINANCE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Uses resources efficiently; does not waste supplies. Self-motivated to independently manage time effectively and prioritize daily tasks, minimizing incidental overtime.
  • Assists with ensuring orders are on appropriate grants.

GROWTH/INNOVATION ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Participates in grant writing.
  • Determines specific research project goals and objectives to be attained. Assumes responsibility and oversight for those goals and objectives.
  • Seeks opportunities to identify developmental needs of self and takes appropriate action. Ensures own career discussions occur with appropriate management. Completes and updates the individual development plan (IDP) on an ongoing basis.

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* No

    TRAVEL**
    **Travel specifications may vary by department**
    • May require travel within the Houston Metropolitan area No
    • May require travel outside Houston Metropolitan area No
QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION
  • Master’s degree in related field or terminal degree with two years post-doctoral experience

EXPERIENCE
  • Five years experience, depending on education level

Company Profile:

Houston Methodist Academic Institute oversees the Education Institute and Research Institute. The Academic Institute aligns our research and education initiatives in service to the clinical mission, providing solutions that answer the call for new technologies and skills our clinicians need for patient care. Houston Methodist Education Institute coordinates our primary academic affiliation with Weill Cornell Medicine and other joint programs, including the Engineering Medicine Program at Texas A&M University Intercollegiate School of Engineering Medicine. The Education Institute also oversees continuing medical education and graduate medical education, and supports trainees in residence for medical, nursing, allied health and research education programs. Houston Methodist Research Institute supports research programs and infrastructure that enable faculty across the system to bring new scientific discoveries to patients as rapidly as possible through the full cycle of a cure from conceptual bench research, to prototyping and development, to clinical trials and FDA approval. The Research Institute supports clinical research protocols and extramurally funded translational research programs.

Houston Methodist is an Equal Opportunity Employer.