Research Assistant II - Surgical Oncology - Research

UT MD Anderson Cancer Center • Houston, TX

2d

About The Position

The Research Assistant II provides technical and coordination support for research projects in the Keung Laboratory within the Department of Surgical Oncology at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. The laboratory studies the molecular pathogenesis and immuno-oncology of soft tissue sarcomas, seeks therapeutic targets and treatment strategies, and translates discoveries into clinical applications. The role supports translational oncology research in a specialized setting that combines clinician-scientists with access to patient tumors.

The position contributes to laboratory operations, specimen management, experimental execution, and data analysis. Work includes coordinating and conducting in vitro and in vivo studies, processing and cataloging human specimens, performing laboratory and animal-study procedures, maintaining research databases, analyzing and reporting results, and supporting laboratory organization and compliance. The role requires adherence to approved protocols, institutional privacy and confidentiality requirements, and HIPAA requirements concerning protected health information. The stated salary range is $45,000–$68,000, with a midpoint of $56,500.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Basic Science.
• One year of scientific or experimental research work experience, or no experience if holding the preferred degree.
• Ability to perform research work involving specimen processing, laboratory techniques, data analysis, and scientific reporting.
• Ability to comply with laboratory guidelines, approved protocols, and institutional privacy, confidentiality, and HIPAA requirements.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills; professionalism, adaptability, and time management.

Nice To Haves

• Master's degree in Basic Science.
• Experience with wet-lab methodologies, animal studies, database management, and research coordination.
• Familiarity with patient-derived xenograft models and translational oncology research.
• Experience with cell culture, flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, microscopy, imaging, RT-PCR, DNA/RNA/protein extraction, western blotting, and cellular assays.
• Graphing and statistical software skills.

Responsibilities

• Process human specimens according to established protocols and standards.
• Maintain accurate and current database records for research samples and communicate specimen and data-management updates to the research team.
• Review data entries with the Principal Investigator and laboratory team as needed, and meet weekly with Dr. Torres and/or senior research team members to review completed data entry.
• Attend laboratory meetings and provide updates on assigned work.
• Coordinate and execute translational research projects involving in vitro and in vivo oncology studies.
• Conduct studies using patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models to evaluate therapeutic agents and perform cohort-based drug studies in tumor-bearing mice under approved protocols.
• Plan and execute experiments using sound scientific judgment, evaluate outcomes, and adapt approaches as appropriate.
• Acquire, process, and store tumor, blood, tissue, and other biological specimens.
• Record, organize, and analyze experimental findings accurately.
• Perform cell culture, flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, microscopy, imaging, RT-PCR, DNA/RNA/protein extraction, western blotting, and cellular assays as required by laboratory protocols.
• Prepare specimens for submission to institutional core facilities as needed.
• Perform animal experiments and laboratory assays in compliance with laboratory guidelines; carry out procedures independently after training.
• Design and maintain scientific and administrative reports; assist the Principal Investigator with database entry and data analysis.
• Prepare research results in tables, figures, and narrative summaries, and use graphing and statistical software when appropriate.
• Use Microsoft Office applications for reporting and project documentation.
• Support daily laboratory functions, including supplies, ordering, and inventory; monitor equipment maintenance needs and assist with troubleshooting.
• Maintain an organized and properly stocked laboratory environment and promptly communicate safety concerns to the Principal Investigator and/or laboratory manager.
• Maintain compliance with institutional privacy, confidentiality, and HIPAA requirements regarding protected health information.
• Participate in institutional and external educational programs to maintain professional expertise.
• Demonstrate laboratory ethics, professionalism, adaptability, time management, and effective written, verbal, and interpersonal communication.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Employer-paid medical coverage starting on day one for employees working 30 or more hours per week.
• Optional group dental, vision, life, AD&D, and disability insurance.
• PTO and Extended Illness Bank accruals, paid holidays, wellness, childcare, and other leave options.
• Tuition Assistance Program after six months of service.
• Access to wellness and fitness resources and employee resource groups.
• Defined-benefit pension through the Teachers Retirement System and voluntary retirement plans.
• Employer-paid life and reduced salary protection programs.
• Educational opportunities and individual and team recognition.

What This Job Offers

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