Research Assistant II

UT MD Anderson Cancer Center•Houston, TX

3d•Onsite

About The Position

MD Anderson’s Cancer Biology department is seeking a research-driven team member to coordinate and conduct experiments and research projects in biology, genetics, and related biomedical or basic science areas. The research group combines metabolomics and genetic approaches to identify metabolic pathways important to disease progression and develop potential therapeutic strategies. Research includes tracing specific nutrients in vitro and in vivo, conducting mechanistic analyses in preclinical models, and translating findings into clinically relevant insights. Training and support for new techniques will be provided. The role involves research with animal models—including rats and mice—and cell culture, along with laboratory operations and safety responsibilities. An inquisitive mind, willingness to learn, responsibility, and thoroughness are expected. The position is based at the Texas Medical Center, and the typical work schedule is onsite. The listed pay range is $21.63 to $32.69 per hour, with a midpoint of $27.16 per hour. The position offers the opportunity to contribute to cancer biology research and gain exposure to advanced laboratory techniques, animal model research, and translational science while working alongside investigators in an environment supporting professional growth, scientific learning, and work-life balance. MD Anderson benefits include 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 and other leave options; wellness and childcare offerings; tuition assistance after six months of service; wellness and fitness resources and employee resource groups; a defined-benefit pension through the Teachers Retirement System; voluntary retirement plans; and employer-paid life and reduced salary protection programs. The position may be responsible for maintaining the security and integrity of critical infrastructure and may require routine reviews and screening. The ability to meet and maintain applicable requirements is a condition of hire and continued employment. MD Anderson provides equal employment opportunity as described in its institutional policy and applicable laws.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a basic science field.
One year of scientific or experimental research work experience, or no experience if the candidate has a preferred degree.
Willingness to work with rats in a research setting.
Inquisitiveness, willingness to learn new methods, responsibility, and thoroughness.
Comfort handling laboratory animals.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in a basic science field.
Medical degree.
Previous experience with animal procedures such as subcutaneous and intraperitoneal injections, oral gavage, and tumor measurements.

Responsibilities

Coordinate and conduct research projects in biology, genetics, and related biomedical science disciplines.
Plan experiments and studies using imagination, initiative, and inventiveness.
Execute experimental procedures, evaluate research results, interpret findings, and contribute to scientific analyses.
Support metabolomics and genetic research projects investigating disease progression.
Participate in adopting new research techniques and learning additional laboratory skills.
Conduct nutrient-tracing studies in vitro and in vivo.
Perform animal procedures, including injections, oral gavage, blood collection, weight monitoring, tumor measurement, tissue and cell implantation, liver perfusion, and vein infusion.
Work with rats, nude mice, and conventional mice.
Perform advanced animal research procedures, including in utero lentiviral injections, grafting, surgical interventions, genotyping, tumor-cell injections, animal imaging, and necropsies.
Monitor and record animal experiment progress and administer investigational drugs according to study protocols.
Prepare tissue samples for histological processing.
Maintain mammalian cell cultures and perform growth assays, drug-response assays, transfections, and viral infection studies.
Extract nucleic acids and perform PCR, immunoblotting, immunocytochemistry, and immunohistochemistry procedures.
Perform metabolite extraction and molecular biology techniques involving DNA, RNA, and proteins.
Perform immunofluorescence and Western blotting procedures as needed.
Participate in developing and revising laboratory techniques.
Assemble and operate laboratory apparatus and equipment.
Order and organize laboratory supplies.
Monitor laboratory safety standards, maintain hazardous-material records, and support compliance with laboratory policies and safety requirements.

Benefits

Employer-paid medical coverage starting 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 and other leave options.
Wellness and childcare offerings.
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.