Research Assistant II

UT MD Anderson Cancer Center • Houston, TX

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Research Assistant II provides technical and coordination skills in carrying out various research projects. Responsibilities include conducting experiments, assembling and operating laboratory equipment, preparing complex human and animal samples, evaluating data, and contributing to research focused on cancer metabolic pathways, novel therapies, and early detection biomarkers. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in a basic science field, with a Master's degree or Medical Degree preferred. Candidates with experience in scientific or experimental research and expertise in immunoassays, ELISA, and mass spectrometry are highly preferred. A strong background in laboratory techniques, sample analysis, and collaborative research environments will support success in this role. At UT MD Anderson, this role directly supports groundbreaking cancer prevention and translational research that advances scientific discovery and improves patient outcomes. The position offers opportunities to collaborate with leading researchers, develop advanced laboratory expertise, contribute to impactful cancer research initiatives, and grow professionally within a highly collaborative environment that values innovation, work-life balance, and continuous learning.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree Basic Science
• One year Scientific or experimental research work experience or No experience required with preferred degree

Nice To Haves

• Master's Degree Basic Science
• Medical Degree
• Prior experience with immunoassay techniques, ELISA, and mass spectrometry is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and conduct experiments and carry out research projects across biomedical and related basic science areas, including cancer research.
• Perform laboratory assays using established techniques such as animal models, cell culture and transfection, Western blotting, RT-PCR analysis, and flow cytometry.
• Test plasma samples in accordance with validated protocols and study requirements.
• Test cell line samples in accordance with validated protocols and study requirements.
• Test tumor samples in accordance with validated protocols and study requirements.
• Construct laboratory apparatus necessary for experimental procedures.
• Assemble laboratory equipment necessary for experimental procedures.
• Operate laboratory apparatus and equipment necessary for experimental procedures.
• Maintain laboratory apparatus and equipment required to support experimental procedures.
• Prepare reagents to support ongoing research activities.
• Prepare stock solutions to support laboratory operations and research studies.
• Prepare buffers required for laboratory assays and testing procedures.
• Ensure laboratory supplies are available to support ongoing research activities.
• Review scientific literature to identify new or revised research procedures.
• Confer with faculty regarding updates to research methodologies and protocols.
• Confer with senior researchers regarding new or revised research procedures.
• Assist with developing standard operating procedures to meet project needs.
• Assist with validating standard operating procedures to ensure research quality and compliance.
• Assist with modifying standard operating procedures to support evolving project requirements.
• Accurately record experimental procedures in accordance with requested methods, SOPs, and research standards.
• Accurately record experimental results and observations.
• Evaluate research data using established methods, SOPs, and research standards.
• Compile data summaries to support research findings and study outcomes.
• Contribute to scientific reports and research presentations.
• Communicate effectively with faculty to support study design and execution.
• Communicate effectively with laboratory scientists to support research activities and project goals.
• Communicate effectively with clinical researchers to facilitate study execution and collaboration.
• Communicate effectively with collaborators to support research objectives and project timelines.
• Work as part of a multidisciplinary research team to achieve study goals.
• Contribute input that supports decision-making and project progress.
• Ask thoughtful questions that support scientific discussion and project advancement.
• Provide solutions that support decision-making and successful project execution.

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: Mid Level