Graduate research assistant jobs in Pharr, TX - 61 jobs

DPS - CLD - Research Specialist, DNA - 0608 (00055285) Organization: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY Primary Location: Texas-Austin Work Locations: AUSTIN (SPRINGDALE RD) 812 SPRINGDALE RD Austin 78702 Other Locations: Texas-Lubbock, Texas-Laredo, Texas-Garland, Texas-Weslaco, Texas-Houston Job: Computer and Mathematical Employee Status: Regular Schedule: Full-time Standard Hours Per Week: 40. 00 State Job Code: 0608 Salary Admin Plan: B Grade: 24 Salary (Pay Basis): 6,830. 12 - 8,886. 16 (Monthly) Number of Openings: 1 Overtime Status: Exempt Job Posting: Jan 20, 2026, 9:43:06 PM Closing Date: Feb 15, 2026, 5:59:00 AM Description *** Copies of OFFICIAL Transcripts indicating conferred degree are required and must be attached to your application to be considered. ***PLEASE NOTE: All applications must contain complete job histories, which includes job title, dates of employment, name of employer, supervisor's name and phone number and a description of duties performed. If this information is not submitted, your application may be rejected because it is incomplete. Resumes do not take the place of this required information. SUBMITTED THROUGH WORK IN TEXAS: Work In Texas (WIT) applicants must complete the supplemental questions to be considered for the posting. In order to complete the supplemental questions please go to CAPPS Recruit to register or login and access your profile. Go to CAPPS Recruit to Sign In ************** taleo. net/careersection/ex/jobsearch. ftl?lang=en GENERAL DESCRIPTION: Perform highly advanced (senior-level) technical work for the Seized Drugs (SD), Toxicology (Tox), or Biology (DNA) Programs. Work includes overseeing development, implementation, and monitoring of research projects in technical forensic programs for the Division as well as laboratory locations. Work may include other special projects. May supervise the work of others. Works under minimal supervision, with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Conditions of Employment:Prior to employment must provide documentation from a physician of:1. Visual acuity,2. Color vision acuity for Seized Drugs and Biology/DNAAll acuity testing must have occurred prior to and within six (6) months of the start date. Must be able to obtain a forensic analyst license from the Texas Forensic Science Commission in accordance with the Code of Criminal Procedure Title 1 Chapter 38. 01. The following Military Occupational Specialty codes are generally applicable to this position. *********** sao. texas. gov/Compensation/MilitaryCrosswalk/MOSC_PlanningResearchandStatistics. pdf Applicants must fully complete the summary of experience to determine if minimum qualifications are met. ESSENTIAL DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. Oversees/participates in the development, implementation, and monitoring of specialized research projects, including instrument and method validations. Coordinates validation team to perform experiments during validation. 2. Collect, compile, and analyze research data in the preparation and presentation of reports and research findings. 3. Develop and review policies, procedures, and quality assurance practices to ensure the implementation of research findings. 4. Determine and review the effectiveness and methodologies of research projects and areas to be assessed. 5. Develop and review policies and procedures used in conducting and administering research activities to make existing methods more efficient and/or effective. 6. Consult and provide technical advice on research methods and new techniques to determine the validity for use in DPS crime lab casework. 7. Formulate and monitor long-range research objectives, programs, and priorities to keep up to date with the forensic community at large. 8. Prepare research budget estimates, maintain cost accounting records of project expenditures, and prepare monthly budget reports. 9. Analyze and evaluate the impact of legislation, regulations, policies, and standards affecting current research and priorities. 10. Participate in internal and external auditing, proficiency and casework activities as required. 11. Design and create computer programs or other tools for research applications. 12. Attend work regularly and observe approved work hours in accordance with agency leave and attendance policies. 13. Perform other duties as assigned. Qualifications GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS and REQUIREMENTS: Education - Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, forensic science* or a related area, AND successful completion of at least nine (9) upper level credit hours covering an understanding of the foundation of DNA analysis, AND successful completion of at least one college course in statistics or population genetics**. *Forensic science programs must be either FEPAC-accredited OR meet the minimum curriculum requirements pertaining to natural science core courses and specialized science courses set forth in the FEPAC Accreditation Standards. **Advanced Placement (AP) credits are accepted. Substitution Note: A Forensic Biology/DNA Analyst license from the Texas Forensic Science Commission may be substituted for the education requirements. Substitution Note: Written documentation of prior approval as a DNA analyst in Appendix D of the FBI Quality Assurance Standards audit document may be substituted for the education requirements. Experience - Minimum of five (5) years' progressively complex work experience in a forensic laboratory in the field of DNA analysis which should include a minimum of three (3) years' experience (current or previous) as a qualified analyst conducting and/or directing analysis of forensic samples, interpreting DNA data, reaching conclusions on DNA data, and generating DNA reports. Direct experience using and validating instrumentation used in DPS Crime Laboratories is required. Experience leading and directing researching projects and/or planning work is preferred. Substitution Note: Additional work experience of the type described or other related education may be substituted for one another on a year-for-year basis. Licensure and/or Certification - Must be able to obtain a forensic analyst license from the Texas Forensic Science Commission in accordance with the Code of Criminal Procedure Title 1 Chapter 38. 01. Must possess a valid driver license from state of residence. Regulatory knowledge - Working knowledge of, or the ability to rapidly assimilate information related to TXDPS, State and Federal regulations, legislation, guidelines, policies, and procedures. Supervisory/Managerial/Leadership skills - Knowledge of management/supervisory methods and principles, performance/productivity standards, and fiscal/budget management obtained through documented prior Supervisory/Managerial/Lead roles as applicable to the classification level. Ability to develop plans, policies, and procedures for efficient workflow and overall effectiveness. Ability to provide clear direction to others, promote teamwork and motivate others to accomplish goals. Technology - Proficiency with Microsoft Office and appropriate levels of proficiency with utilized software and systems (e. g. CAPPS, SharePoint) and be able to learn new software/systems. Interpersonal Skills - Must demonstrate an ability to exercise poise, tact, diplomacy, and an ability to establish and maintain positive, working/professional relationships with internal/external customers. Must demonstrate DPS' core values: Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Teamwork. Organizational and Prioritization Skills - Must be organized, flexible, and able to effectively prioritize in a multi-demand and constantly changing environment; able to meet multiple and sometimes conflicting deadlines without sacrificing accuracy, timeliness, or professionalism. Presentation/Communication Skills - Must be able to construct and deliver clear, concise, and professional presentations and/or communications to a variety of audiences and/or individuals. Research and Comprehension - Must demonstrate ability to access relevant information and be able to utilize and/or present research and conclusions in a clear and concise manner quickly and efficiently. Analytical Reasoning/Attention to Detail - Must demonstrate an ability to examine data/information, discern variations/similarities, and be able to identify trends, relationships, and causal factors, as well as grasp issues, draw accurate conclusions, and solve problems. Confidentiality and Protected Information - Must demonstrate an ability to responsibly handle sensitive and confidential information and situations and adhere to applicable laws/statutes/policies related to access, maintenance, and dissemination of information. Safety - Must be able to work in safe manner at all times, avoiding shortcuts that have potential adverse results/risks, and must be able to comply with safety standards and best practices. Schedule and/or Remote/Telecommuting work and/or Travel - Availability for after-hours and overnight, may be required as needed. This position may have the ability to telecommute based on the needs of the division/agency. Travel statewide as needed. PHYSICAL and/or ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS: The physical and environmental demands described here are representative of those encountered and/or necessary for the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job; reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. • Environment: Office/Indoors, Laboratory;• Ambulatory skills, e. g. stand, walk, sit;• Hand-eye coordination and arm/hand/finger dexterity;• Ability to accurately identify colors and discern differences in color, applicable only to Seized Drugs and Biology/DNA;• Ability to speak, hear, and exercise visual acuity to perceive minute differences/details, and to withstand the strain of continued close work. Stereoscopic vision sufficient to perform detailed work;• Ability to transfer weights of up to ten (10) pounds anticipated for this position. • Driving requirements: Occasional (up to 15%). State of Texas Benefits and Retirement Information: ************ ers. texas. gov/Current DPS employees who submit applications for posted DPS positions shall notify their immediate supervisor in writing. A DPS employee who is selected for a position in the same salary group and state title as their current position will be transferred with no salary change. A DPS employee who is selected for a position in their current salary group with a new state title may receive an increase of no more than 3. 4% over their current salary regardless of posted salary. Salary is contingent upon qualifications and is subject to salary administration and budgetary restrictions. DUE TO THE HIGH VOLUME OF APPLICATIONS WE DO NOT ACCEPT TELEPHONE CALLS. ONLY CANDIDATES SELECTED FOR INTERVIEW WILL BE CONTACTED. State of Texas retirees may be rehired for full-time, non-commissioned positions only under very specific circumstances.

Performs moderately complex (journey-level) technical research and statistical work. Work involves assisting with collecting, compiling, and interpreting operational research and statistical data used in planning and executing South Texas Clean Cities & Communities Coalition programs and grants (Clean Cities and Communities: South Texas Clean Cities and Communities Coalition, STC4 (apprentice)). Works under general supervision, with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Prepares, collects, and checks source data to verify completeness and accuracy of STC4 program. Computes and analyzes data, using statistical formulas, computers, and calculators. Enters and reviews of program data used in analysis and reporting. Attend, participate in, and occasionally coordinate meetings and events. Assist with the planning, marketing, and implementation of events, including roundtables, training, and other educational events. Organizes documentation such as survey forms and reports for distribution and analysis. Applies statistical formulas and procedures to data and prepares summary reports. Provide support for ongoing development activities, including prospect research, administration of sponsor programs, coordination of marketing materials, and maintenance of donor lists. Assists in developing and implementing research quality control procedures. Assists in compiling reports, charts, and graphs in support of STC4 program mission and initiatives. May assist in planning methods to collect information and developing questionnaires. May assist in conducting surveys using sampling techniques. May guide staff. Local travel may be required. Performs other such related duties as may be assigned. INTERNSHIP DURATION: 6-Month (Jan. 2026 thru June 2026) Final duration of internship opportunity subject to availability of grant funds. HOURS PER WEEK: Up to 20 hours LOCATION: 301 W. Railroad Street Weslaco, Tx. 78596 HOURLY RATE: $14 QUALIFICATION: Experience in research or statistical work. Current and continued enrollment in an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in business, communications, engineering, environmental science and /or urban planning with at least 90 credit hours completed are strongly preferred. Proof of enrollment must be provided. REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Detail oriented and highly organized with ability to multi-task and a disciplined self-starter who thrives in both team and individual environments. Demonstrate proficiency in both oral and written communication. Knowledge of standard research and statistical procedures and techniques, and of computer applications used to perform statistical analyses. Skill in critical thinking, in conducting research, and in the use of a computer and applicable office software. Ability to compile, analyze, and interpret statistical data; to communicate effectively; read, write and speak both English and Spanish; Follow strict rules regarding the gathering, decimating, and storage of documents, reports, and other information. “Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veteran/Disability”

Minimum Qualifications 1. Must be admitted to a graduate degree program. 2. Must be in good academic standing 3. Be registered full-time for the respective semester - nine (9) semester credit hours during the fall semester, nine (9) semester credit hours during the spring semester, or three (3) semester credit hours during the summer session or be registered in the required number of semester credit hours to fulfill the only remaining requirements of the degree plan. Preferred Qualifications GRA must: have good communication skills: writing, presenting, group facilitation be able to work independently, with others, and under periodic supervision be a self starter take initiative

Minimum Qualifications Minimum Qualifications 1. Currently admitted to the Graduate School 2. Be in good academic standing 3. Be registered full-time for the respective semester (nine semester credit hours during the fall semester, nine semester credit hours during spring semester, six semester credit hours during the summer session(s)), or in the required number of semester credit hours to fulfill the only remaining requirements on the degree plan. Preferred Qualifications *Knowledge of or experience in researching topics related to Mexican Americans in the RGV , Texas-Mexico borderlands, including Northern Mexico *Thorough knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, especially Excel, PowerPoint, publisher and other relevant programs *Be bilingual (Spanish/English) *Reading and writing knowledge in Spanish

Minimum Qualifications 1. Currently admitted to the Graduate School 2. Be in good academic standing 3. Be registered full-time for the respective semester (nine semester credit hours during the fall semester, nine semester credit hours during spring semester, six semester credit hours during the summer session(s)), or in the required number of semester credit hours to fulfill the only remaining requirements on the degree plan. Preferred Qualifications The Graduate Research Assistant position is available to full-time graduate students, preferably those in good academic standing and in the Physics & Astronomy major.

Minimum Qualifications 1. Must be admitted to a graduate degree program. 2. Must be in good academic standing 3. Be registered full-time for the respective semester - nine (9) semester credit hours during the fall semester, nine (9) semester credit hours during the spring semester, or three (3) semester credit hours during the summer session or be registered in the required number of semester credit hours to fulfill the only remaining requirements of the degree plan. Preferred Qualifications Experience conducting educational research Bilingual English-Spanish Teaching experience Knowledge and experience transcribing data Experience with the use of technology for video and audio recording

Scope of Job The Department of Sociology at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) occasionally has the need to hire Graduate Students to assist in the areas of teaching (TAs), research (RAs), or administration (GAs). Discipline Specific Required Qualifications Minimum Qualifications: Enrollment in the Sociology MS or Disaster Studies MA program. If hired as Graduate Teaching Assistant, must have 18 hours of advanced hours in Sociology. Discipline Specific Required Qualifications: Graduate coursework in Sociology Preferred Qualification: Research or teaching experience is desirable, as well as ability to use technology to support teaching and learning. Ability to teach online is preferred. Preferred Qualifications Preferred Qualification: Research or teaching experience is desirable, as well as ability to use technology to support teaching and learning. Ability to teach online is preferred. Salary 2900-5800 Number of Vacancies 1 Desired Start Date 10/20/2025

Graduate Assistants work under the guidance of assigned faculty, with responsibilities shaped by the faculty's ongoing research projects and instructional priorities. Discipline Specific Required Qualifications The Graduate Research Assistantship is available to master's students who are assigned to a specific faculty mentor. Responsibilities are closely aligned with the student's field of study and will vary based on the faculty member's research projects and assigned tasks. Graduate Research Assistants may support laboratory work, assist with data collection and analysis, contribute to publications, or engage in other research-related activities that advance the faculty's scholarly work. Graduate Research Assistants are expected to work up to 20 hours per week on a flexible schedule. Preferred Qualifications The Graduate Research Assistant position is available to full-time graduate students, ideally those in good academic standing in the SIBCS, who are eager to gain hands-on research experience. Salary 1,250 Number of Vacancies Varies Desired Start Date 01/01/2026

* collect data for research purposes * work with faculty to assist in data collection * keep a log of research activity * submit a summary of the research activity at the end of each semester. Discipline Specific Required Qualifications Health care related background Knowledge of searching databases Computer knowledge of Microsoft 365 Preferred Qualifications Salary Number of Vacancies 18 Desired Start Date 01/16/2026

| Student will engage in exclusive networking ,research, and professional development activities, participate in cohort-building events, and enjoy flexible work schedules that accommodate academic commitments. Puentes provides opportunities to learn beyond the classroom, develop critical skills like time management and communication, and gain confidence in a professional setting. Develop and maintain relationships with the community, university students, university faculty and staff who are a part of the Puentes year 2 workshops and help guide them on any questions they may have regarding the grant and their assignments. Responsible for assisting with seminars, conferences, workshops, campus talks and events under the Puentes grant. Student will learn about Mexican American studies and social justice in our local school, University, and community and will work closely faculty and staff from various departments on helping develop their syllabi's and SWOT (strengths, weakness, opportunities, threats) assignments to help create a sense of belonging in their classrooms and depts/centers. Assist in the management- Students will manage their time as well as assist PI's on research for the grants assigned. Graphic design, students will learn graphic design skills such as creating flyers, promotional items, website design and upkeep as well as how to use Adobe and other UTRGV media tools to maintain the grant. Discipline Specific Required Qualifications * Bachelors degree * Must be able to engage in public speaking. * Must be able to work individually and as a team. Preferred Qualifications Salary 1250.00 Monthly Number of Vacancies 2 Desired Start Date 01/20/2026

Maximum appointment is limited to twenty (20) hours per week (50% FTE). Discipline Specific Required Qualifications The Graduate Research Assistantship award is available to master's and doctoral students who are assigned to a specific faculty member who is conducting research or a scholarly endeavor. Duties will vary depending on the project and assigned research/scholarly functions, or other creative aspects. Preferred Qualifications Salary Commensurate with experience. Number of Vacancies Multiple Desired Start Date 01/14/2026

Minimum Qualifications 1. Must be admitted to a graduate degree program. 2. Must be in good academic standing 3. Be registered full-time for the respective semester - nine (9) semester credit hours during the fall semester, nine (9) semester credit hours during the spring semester, or three (3) semester credit hours during the summer session or be registered in the required number of semester credit hours to fulfill the only remaining requirements of the degree plan. Preferred Qualifications The Graduate Research Assistant position is available to full-time PhD students in good academic standing and in the Human Genetics PhD Program.

Minimum Qualifications Minimum Qualifications 1. Currently admitted to the Graduate School 2. Be in good academic standing 3. Be registered full-time for the respective semester (nine semester credit hours during the fall semester, nine semester credit hours during spring semester, six semester credit hours during the summer session(s)), or in the required number of semester credit hours to fulfill the only remaining requirements on the degree plan. Preferred Qualifications 1. Graduate student in the Department of Psychological Science, Department of Biology, or a related program in the College of Liberal Arts, College of Sciences, College of Health Professions, and/or School of Medicine. 2. Prior research experience and/or highly motivated to learn behavioral neuroscience research techniques. 3. Basic knowledge of research methods and statistics. 4. Ability to conduct background research and summarize literature reviews on topics relevant to behavioral neuroscience. 5. Familiarity with research and statistical software and/or highly motivated to learn how to use this type of software. 6. Strong written and verbal communication skills. 7. Demonstrated proficiency in Excel, Word, PowerPoint, & internet navigation. 8. Ability to work independently and manage many projects concurrently. 9. Ability to conduct primary research under the guidance of the lead investigator

1. Complete training on the ethical use of animals in research 2. Complete basic laboratory safety training 3. Conduct research/database searchers for articles and resources relevant to the research topic (i.e., neurobiology of social behavior; animal models of cardiovascular and neurological disorders) 4. Learn and be able to use research and statistical software (e.g., excel, SPSS, graphpad, ANYMaze, data capture software) to analyze data and create graphs. 5. Create PowerPoint and/or poster presentations to share research findings with the lab and others. 6. Conduct behavioral experiments using laboratory animals. 7. Learn and be able to perform surgical and other procedures that allow the investigator to manipulate the brain and other organ systems. 8. Learn and be able to extract brains and other tissues from animal models. 9. Perform tissue processing techniques (e.g., immunocytochemistry and immunohistochemistry), techniques that involve a series of processing steps that allow for identification and visualization of protein in tissue. 10. Learn and be able to capture images of brain sections using a microscope and image capture software. 11. Assist lead investigators with the supervision of undergraduate students in the laboratory. 12. Assist lead investigators with basic administrative tasks. 13. Attend lab meetings and complete assigned tasks in a timely manner Discipline Specific Required Qualifications 1. This research assistantship is funded by a National Institutes of Health grant, and all personnel funded by this grant will be expected to comply with federal laws, regulations, and policies protecting the rights and safety of individuals working on NIH-funded projects. 2. Must be a full-time UTRGV graduate student, willing to work 10 hours per week in a laboratory during regular working hours (9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m./ Monday - Friday) and on the weekends in some cases. Distribution of hours per week is flexible. 3. Able to work with and handle laboratory animals, following institutionally approved protocols. Preferred Qualifications 1. Graduate student in the Department of Psychological Science, Department of Biology, or a related program in the College of Liberal Arts, College of Sciences, College of Health Professions, and/or School of Medicine. 2. Prior research experience and/or highly motivated to learn behavioral neuroscience research techniques. 3. Basic knowledge of research methods and statistics. 4. Ability to conduct background research and summarize literature reviews on topics relevant to behavioral neuroscience. 5. Familiarity with research and statistical software and/or highly motivated to learn how to use this type of software. 6. Strong written and verbal communication skills. 7. Demonstrated proficiency in Excel, Word, PowerPoint, & internet navigation. 8. Ability to work independently and manage many projects concurrently. 9. Ability to conduct primary research under the guidance of the lead investigator Salary Commensurate with experience. Number of Vacancies 1 Desired Start Date 01/05/2026

Research Assistant will assist Research Faculty with the research needs of the project. Discipline Specific Required Qualifications The Research Assistant assistantship award is available to master's students who are assigned to a specific faculty member. Duties are related to the student's field of study and will vary depending upon the project and assigned responsibilities. Research Assistants may also function as lab assistants, graders, for creative activity, and/or other endeavors that assist faculty members in the department's instructional efforts. Graduate assistants may be assigned to professional staff in any Division of the University. Duties will be related to the student's field of study and will vary depending on the projects and assigned responsibilities. Graduate students will work 20 hours per week with flexible distribution. Preferred Qualifications Salary $1,416.66 per month Number of Vacancies 3 Desired Start Date 01/01/2026

The GRA principal duty is to contribute to a program of survey research and analysis. Assisting in the collection and analysis of data with responsibilities mostly related to those undertaken by The Center for Survey Research & Policy Analysis [CSRPA]. May also be assigned to different undergoing projects, and assist with clerical duties related to these research projects. Discipline Specific Required Qualifications Minimum Qualifications: * Must be a graduate student at UTRGV * Must be in good academic standing * GPA at least 3.0 Preferred Qualifications * Preferred Political Science major * Excellent analytical skills * Excellent verbal and written communication skills Salary $1450 monthly wages Number of Vacancies 1 Desired Start Date 01/20/2026

Minimum Qualifications Minimum Qualifications 1. Currently admitted to the Graduate School 2. Be in good academic standing 3. Be registered full-time for the respective semester (nine semester credit hours during the fall semester, nine semester credit hours during spring semester, six semester credit hours during the summer session(s)), or in the required number of semester credit hours to fulfill the only remaining requirements on the degree plan. Preferred Qualifications The Research Assistant position is available to full-time graduate students, preferably those in good academic standing and in the Sch of Earth Env & Marine Sci.

Minimum Qualifications Minimum Qualifications 1. Currently admitted to the Graduate School 2. Be in good academic standing 3. Be registered full-time for the respective semester (nine semester credit hours during the fall semester, nine semester credit hours during spring semester, three semester credit hours during thesummer session(s)), or in the required number of semester credit hours to fulfill the only remaining requirements on the degree plan.

Maximum appointment is limited to twenty (20) hours per week (50% FTE) during the Fall and Spring semesters. Maximum appointment may be increased up to forty (40) hours per week (100% FTE) during the summer if funded by a grant. Dr. Ahsan's Lab in the Department of Manufacturing and Industrial Engineering at UTRGV will be immediately recruiting a motivated graduate (master's/PhD) student to start as early as Summer 2026. The selected candidate will work on a funded research project focused on developing novel alloys for energy applications in harsh environments using additive manufacturing. This research involves integrating computational modeling, machine learning, and experimental investigations to design and characterize new alloys and composites fabricated via laser powder bed fusion additive manufacturing. This work is closely woven into materials science, additive manufacturing, and machine learning realm, with applications in energy and extreme environments. The candidate will receive a monthly stipend and tuition support. Discipline Specific Required Qualifications The Research Assistant assistantship award is available to master's and doctoral students who are assigned to a specific faculty member who is conducting research or a scholarly endeavor. Duties will vary depending on the project and assigned research/scholarly functions, or other creative aspects. Preferred Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or Materials Science and Engineering * Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Materials Science and Engineering (required for Ph.D. applicants) * Experience with additive manufacturing, materials characterization, and/or physics-informed machine learning * Proficiency in Python programming is preferred Salary Commensurate with experience. Number of Vacancies Multiple Desired Start Date 06/01/2026