Research Assistant I
About The Position
The Immunology department at MD Anderson Cancer Center seeks to determine the fundamental cellular and molecular mechanisms of a wide range of processes by which the body recognizes and eliminates pathogens and use these findings to unleash the patient’s own immune system against previously treatment-resistant cancers. Treating the immune system rather than the cancer itself, the therapeutics developed are applicable to many cancers. The Research Assistant I will apply technical expertise and experience to plan and carry out laboratory and/or clinical research projects in the research lab. The ideal candidate will possess a Bachelor's Degree in a natural science, applied science, or related research discipline and demonstrate prior laboratory experience. Experience with immunology coursework or immunology laboratory techniques is a plus.
Requirements
- Bachelor's Degree in Natural Science or Applied Science in a research-related discipline
- None
Nice To Haves
- Prior laboratory experience
- Prior Immunology didactic or laboratory experience is a plus
Responsibilities
- Maintain and establish tissue culture cell lines using proper sterile technique.
- Determine cell counts and cell viability using a microscope and hemocytometer.
- Prepare sterile media and laboratory solutions.
- Monitor, order, and stock tissue culture supplies.
- Prepare cells for cryogenic storage and re-establishment of viable cell lines.
- Package and ship cell lines to collaborators using dry ice.
- Coordinate coverage to ensure continuous maintenance of cell lines, including weekends and holidays when required.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment.
- Order laboratory supplies and maintain inventory levels.
- Coordinate vendor service requests as needed.
- Perform bi-weekly wipe tests.
- Coordinate radioactive waste disposal.
- Follow written laboratory instructions and operational procedures.
- Perform basic immunological research techniques in vivo and in vitro.
- Conduct immunofluorescent staining.
- Perform ELISA assays.
- Conduct Western blotting and SDS-PAGE procedures.
- Isolate DNA and RNA.
- Prepare plasmids for research applications.
- Perform gene cloning.
- Operate PCR equipment.
- Assist with other laboratory duties as assigned.
- Work with live mice in accordance with approved research protocols.
- Understand and follow IACUC regulations and approved animal use procedures.
- Complete required institutional training on animal husbandry, handling, euthanasia, hazard disposal, and veterinary care.
- Assist with maintenance of breeding colonies for three mouse strains.
- Maintain detailed records of mouse inventory and breeding activities.
- Perform tail snipping or bleeding procedures for genotyping.
- Wean litters and support colony management activities.
- Monitor tumor growth during experimental studies.
- Provide occasional weekend coverage to support ongoing monitoring requirements.
- Harvest tissues from mice.
- Prepare single-cell suspensions for downstream assays.
- 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
- Childcare
- 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
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
