Research Assistant I - Cancer Systems Imaging

UT MD Anderson Cancer Center • Houston, TX

6h • Onsite

About The Position

The Research Assistant I role supports the mission of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center by contributing to research initiatives that advance scientific discovery and improve methods for disease characterization, imaging, and treatment development. Within Cancer System Imaging, the Research Assistant I will provide technical support for a variety of research projects under the direction of the Laboratory Manager. The Research Assistant I will perform laboratory and animal-based research activities, maintain laboratory operations, and assist with data collection and analysis. The Research Assistant I will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams while supporting the ongoing research efforts of UT MD Anderson. The ideal candidate will possess a Master’s level degree and some experience in scientific or experimental research work. Candidates should demonstrate strong quantitative, analytical, and basic mathematical skills, along with the ability to work in a laboratory environment involving preclinical research, animal studies, cell culture, histology, and imaging techniques. The candidate should also have strong attention to detail, organizational and communication skills, and the ability to learn laboratory techniques, molecular biology, tissue culture, and small animal procedures. Candidates should be analytical, dependable, able to follow protocols, work independently and collaboratively, and maintain accurate records while complying with institutional safety and regulatory requirements. At UT MD Anderson, this position provides an opportunity to contribute directly to groundbreaking cancer research while developing expertise in preclinical models, laboratory techniques, imaging technologies, and scientific data analysis. Team members benefit from a collaborative research environment that encourages professional growth, innovation, and meaningful contributions to the institution’s mission of ending cancer.

Requirements

• Master’s level degree and some experience in scientific or experimental research work
• Strong quantitative, analytical, and basic mathematical skills
• Ability to work in a laboratory environment involving preclinical research, animal studies, cell culture, histology, and imaging techniques
• Strong attention to detail, organizational and communication skills
• Ability to learn laboratory techniques, molecular biology, tissue culture, and small animal procedures
• Analytical, dependable, able to follow protocols, work independently and collaboratively
• Maintain accurate records while complying with institutional safety and regulatory requirements
• Bachelor's Degree Natural Science or Applied Science in a research-related discipline.
• None

Nice To Haves

• Master’s level degree

Responsibilities

• Conduct experiments and research projects, including animal experimentation, under faculty and research staff supervision
• Maintain laboratory stock materials and provide general laboratory support as needed
• Execute analytical benchtop procedures following established standard operating procedures
• Participate in the development, optimization, and implementation of new laboratory protocols
• Collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary research teams
• Demonstrate flexibility in supporting a variety of changing research activities
• Assist with the development and maintenance of preclinical rodent imaging models
• Perform intracranial tumor implantations and drug administrations
• Conduct bioluminescence imaging procedures
• Assist with trans-cardiac perfusions and tissue harvesting
• Support disease characterization studies and development of non-invasive imaging biomarkers
• Maintain and culture established cell lines using aseptic technique
• Establish modified cell lines through transduction of fluorescently expressed proteins
• Handle biological materials under BL-2 safety conditions
• Perform tissue grossing, processing, embedding, and microtomy procedures
• Conduct immunohistological staining and cover-slipping procedures
• Utilize fluorescent, confocal, and light sheet microscopy systems for tissue imaging
• Register ex vivo images to previously acquired in vivo imaging datasets for analysis
• Operate and maintain laboratory apparatus and equipment
• Assist with equipment cleaning, maintenance, and routine laboratory upkeep
• Organize and restock common laboratory supplies
• Receive, inventory, and distribute incoming laboratory orders
• Dispose of biohazard materials and prepare autoclave items
• Maintain glassware and laboratory workspaces
• Operate equipment including high-speed centrifuges, pH meters, and microfuges
• Read scientific literature and discuss new procedures with laboratory leadership
• Record, analyze, and evaluate data for presentations and publications
• Maintain accurate and meticulous research records
• Maintain a safe laboratory environment through proper use of personal protective equipment
• Adhere to all laboratory safety regulations and compliance requirements
• Identify hazards before handling chemicals, equipment, or biological materials
• Contribute ideas to improve laboratory safety programs and compliance processes
• Perform other duties as assigned

Benefits

• Employer-paid medical coverage starting day one for employees working 30+ hours/week
• Optional group dental, vision, life, AD&D, and disability insurance
• Accruals for PTO and Extended Illness Bank
• Paid holidays
• Wellness programs
• Childcare assistance
• Other leave options
• Tuition Assistance Program after six months of service
• Access to extensive wellness, fitness, and employee resource groups
• Defined-benefit pension through the Teachers Retirement System
• Voluntary retirement plans
• Employer-paid life and reduced salary protection programs

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level