Research Assistant I Genitourinary Med Oncology- Research
About The Position
The Research Assistant I supports laboratory-based and translational research in GU Medical Oncology Research at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. The work contributes to studies involving bone metastasis, in vivo imaging, tissue engineering, cancer biology, and treatment. The position uses imaging technologies, cell culture systems, and animal models to generate research data, maintain laboratory operations, and support collaborative research. The role includes culturing tumor cell lines, NK cells, and 3D tissue-engineered cultures; conducting immunofluorescence and small-animal bioluminescence imaging experiments; managing and treating small animals; operating microscopy platforms; and analyzing images and data. It also supports laboratory inventory, research communications, shipments, and required logs. The position requires a bachelor's degree in a research-related natural or applied science discipline; no experience is required. Experience in GU Medical Oncology is preferred.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in natural science or applied science in a research-related discipline.
- Ability to communicate results and understand instructions from supervisors and coworkers.
- Clear and accurate communication in English, face-to-face and by telephone.
- Willingness to cooperate with staff, students, fellows, and visitors.
- Computer literacy sufficient to generate electronic versions of data and images for analysis and presentation.
- Ability to manage laboratory inventories and order materials in a timely manner.
Nice To Haves
- Experience working in GU Medical Oncology.
- Knowledge of software and macro programming, such as ImageJ or Matlab, and image stitching and post-processing.
- Knowledge of CAD design of hardware.
- Basic knowledge of cancer cell biology.
- Experience with cloud-based image and data management.
Responsibilities
- Culture tumor cell lines, NK cells, and 3D tissue-engineered cultures based on polymeric scaffolds for in vitro organotypic tumor growth.
- Perform immunofluorescence experiments.
- Independently conduct basic small-animal bioluminescence imaging experiments and analyze data.
- Manipulate, treat, and manage small animals.
- Independently operate multiphoton, confocal, and epifluorescence microscopes to acquire images and perform time-lapse analysis.
- Independently perform image and data analysis.
- Generate electronic data and image files for analysis and presentation.
- Manage laboratory inventories and order materials in a timely manner.
- Coordinate with department members and collaborators to support information flow and quality control.
- Read and understand articles related to ongoing technical research.
- Assemble instruments, samples, reagents, ice, data, and packaging materials for shipments; complete shipping labels and maintain outgoing and incoming shipment logs.
- Process incoming packages by ascertaining contents, storing items appropriately, filing information sheets, and notifying the principal investigator.
- Update inventory and patient tissue logs in compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Perform related work as required.
Benefits
- Employer-paid medical coverage beginning on day one for employees working 30 or more hours per week.
- Optional group dental, vision, life, AD&D, and disability insurance.
- Accruals for paid time off and an Extended Illness Bank.
- Paid holidays, wellness, childcare, and other leave options.
- Tuition Assistance Program after six months of service.
- Access to 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.
- Educational opportunities and individual and team recognition.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
