Research Assistant I

About the Role

• Research Assistant I in the Neuroimaging and Electrophysiology lab of Dr. Nitin Tandon at UTHealth.
• Lab specializes in the study of human language processing and cognition.
• Uses direct recordings and electrical stimulation in the brains of patients with epilepsy and tumors implanted with intracranial electrodes.
• Experimental tasks involve EEG (iEEG), intracranial electrical stimulation (iES), fMRI, eye tracking, and behavioral tests.
• Also interested in clinical studies focusing on epilepsy and tumors.
• Ideal for candidates considering a career in neuroscience or medicine.

Key Responsibilities

• Under general supervision, performs laboratory experiments and activities to support research objectives.
• Collects, organizes, and prepares research data.
• Updates notebooks, records, and databases.
• Maintains clean laboratory equipment and work area.
• Orders laboratory and/or other supplies as directed.
• Stays abreast of new and updated procedures and protocols.
• Maintains compliance with required training.
• May participate in continuing education programs, seminars, and workshops.
• As needed, may coordinate the work of technicians.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Additional Responsibilities

• Explains study details to patients and obtains informed consent.
• Collects data in the epilepsy monitoring unit and operating rooms.
• Cleans newly collected data using computer software programs.
• Performs simple data analyses as instructed using computer software programs.
• Operates and maintains data recording and stimulation computers.
• Manages research project databases and other study documents.
• Ensures compliance with IRB research protocols and assists with yearly IRB study reviews.
• Communicates with PI, other lab personnel, and collaborating labs on shared projects.
• Ensures essential documentation and recording of patient and research data.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• MATLAB (or equivalent) programming preferred.
• Comfortable interacting with patients in a hospital setting preferred.
• Competent in using computers.
• Basic knowledge of MATLAB (or equivalent) programming preferred.
• Self-motivated.
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree required.
• May substitute required education with equivalent years of experience beyond the minimum experience requirement.
• General knowledge of research fields.

Physical Requirements

• Exerts up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 10 pounds frequently and/or a negligible amount constantly to move objects.

Other Information

• This position is a security-sensitive position.
• Employees must permanently reside and work in the State of Texas.