Research Assistant II - GI Medical Oncology

UT MD Anderson Cancer Center • Houston, TX

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Research Assistant II role supports the mission of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center by contributing to innovative cancer biology studies focused on colorectal cancer, treatment response, immune checkpoint therapy, and translational research that advances the understanding of intestinal adenocarcinomas. Within the GI Medical Oncology department, the Research Assistant II will play an integral role in a laboratory focused on the molecular characterization of colorectal cancer, patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models, immune-related mechanisms, and novel treatment strategies. The Research Assistant II will work closely with research leadership and laboratory personnel to execute complex experiments, manage animal studies, and generate high-quality research data that supports scientific discovery. The ideal candidate for the Research Assistant II position will possess education and experience that support laboratory research in cancer biology, animal models, molecular characterization, and data analysis. Experience working with mouse colonies, PDX models, immune cell isolation, and scientific data interpretation is highly desirable. Strong communication, technical, organizational, and laboratory safety skills are important for success in this role.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Basic Science
• One year of scientific or experimental research work experience (or no experience required with a preferred degree)

Nice To Haves

• Master's Degree in Basic Science
• Medical Degree
• Experience working with mouse colonies
• Experience with PDX models
• Experience with immune cell isolation
• Experience with scientific data interpretation

Responsibilities

• Manage mouse colonies with minimal supervision
• Perform survival surgeries for implantation of patient-derived tumor fragments and cell lines
• Administer drug dosing through oral gavage, intraperitoneal, and subcutaneous techniques
• Measure tumor response using calipers and non-invasive imaging methods
• Analyze outcomes from efficacy studies
• Perform non-survival surgeries for specimen collection and molecular characterization
• Conduct necropsies and collect tumor, blood, bone marrow, spleen, and lymph node samples
• Extract immune cells from human tumors and mouse tissues
• Conduct cancer biology experiments according to approved research plans
• Support molecular characterization of colorectal cancer models
• Perform ex vivo treatment studies using collected specimens
• Utilize primary tumors, xenograft tumors, cell cultures, and animal models in research projects
• Study mechanisms of treatment response and resistance
• Investigate immune-related pathways involved in tumor and immune cell interactions
• Support research involving immune checkpoint therapies
• Maintain accurate and detailed mouse colony records, including PDX models
• Ensure timely entry of research and animal-related data
• Verify correct animal identification using ear tags
• Report identification discrepancies to the supervisor
• Properly label collected tissue samples
• Deposit specimens into designated storage locations
• Maintain accurate documentation of stored samples and research activities
• Analyze experimental data with minimal supervision
• Create plots and visual representations of research findings
• Utilize advanced Microsoft Excel skills for data analysis
• Use Adobe Photoshop for research-related image processing and presentation support
• Communicate experimental results and potential issues clearly to supervisors and laboratory personnel
• Present findings during laboratory meetings
• Review scientific literature and references to support research activities
• Develop written experimental procedures and protocols
• Prepare concise and accurate methods and results summaries
• Assist with training graduate students, fellows, and post-doctoral trainees when needed
• Maintain a clean and organized laboratory environment
• Follow institutional policies and OSHA requirements regarding biohazard and radiation safety

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, and 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