Senior Research Scientist

The Department of Systems Biology is an interdisciplinary department that is pushing the boundaries of cancer research by integrating technology development, bioengineering, data science, and systems biology.


The primary function of the Sr. Research Scientist is to provide technical expertise and experience to plan, design, coordinate, supervise, and carry out research projects. The laboratory studies chromatin biology profiling and modeling using FFPE specimens across different tumor types.


The ideal candidate will possess a preferred PhD in Natural Sciences or a Medical Degree, along with strong experience in next-generation genomic sequencing, chromatin biology, functional proteomics, cancer biology, and genomic high-throughput profiling and analysis using tumor tissue in the cancer research field. The successful candidate will demonstrate scientific leadership, technical innovation, and the ability to contribute to publications, grant development, and laboratory training initiatives.

Minimum $37.74/hour - Midpoint $47.12/hour - Maximum $56.49/hour
Work Location: Texas Medical Center
Schedule: This is a Part-time Onsite position

Why Us?
UT MD Anderson offers the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking cancer research within a collaborative scientific environment focused on discovery and innovation. This role supports meaningful translational research while providing opportunities for professional growth, scientific leadership, publication development, grant participation, and collaboration with leading researchers dedicated to improving cancer outcomes.
• Employer-paid medical coverage starting day one for employees working 30+ hours/week, plus optional group dental, vision, life, AD&D, and disability insurance.
• Accruals for PTO and Extended Illness Bank, plus paid holidays, wellness, childcare, and other leave options.
• Tuition Assistance Program after six months of service and access to extensive wellness, fitness, and employee resource groups.
• Defined-benefit pension through the Teachers Retirement System, voluntary retirement plans, and employer-paid life and reduced salary protection programs.

Responsibilities
Research Activities
• Plan, design, organize, coordinate, direct, and participate in scientific research projects
• Collect, analyze, and evaluate research data using appropriate software applications
• Interpret research findings to support hypothesis generation and model development
• Troubleshoot experiments and improve research methods to advance laboratory projects
• Follow laboratory protocols and maintain accurate, detailed records of experimental procedures and results
• Learn, develop, and establish new techniques and approaches required for laboratory research
• Develop and implement new cell and molecular biology assays to enhance research efforts
• Compile, write, and submit reports to the Principal Investigator
• Serve as a primary contributor to scientific manuscripts and assist with grant writing activities
• Present research findings at scientific meetings and conferences

Research Execution & Scientific Expertise
• Provide technical expertise supporting chromatin biology profiling and modeling studies using FFPE specimens across tumor types
• Apply knowledge of next-generation genomic sequencing experiments and related technologies
• Support studies involving chromatin biology, functional proteomics, and cancer biology
• Contribute to genomic high-throughput profiling and data analysis activities involving tumor tissue
• Adapt to changing research priorities while meeting project timelines and objectives

Laboratory Management
• Maintain laboratory workflows and ensure quality and integrity of experimental procedures and data
• Supervise the proper use of laboratory equipment and implement laboratory safety procedures
• Monitor research activities to ensure adherence to established protocols and standards
Training & Development
• Plan and conduct training for staff, students, and postdoctoral fellows on laboratory techniques and research methodologies
• Share scientific knowledge and technical expertise to support laboratory development and productivity

Collaboration & Communication
• Communicate and collaborate with staff and investigators on research projects within and outside UT MD Anderson
• Maintain productive working relationships with colleagues and research collaborators
• Demonstrate a collaborative approach and contribute effectively within a team-based research environment
• Perform other duties as assigned

EDUCATION
• Required: A Master's Degree in Natural Sciences or a related field
• Preferred: A PhD in Natural Sciences and a Medical Degree

WORK EXPERIENCE
• Required: Six years of experimental or scientific work experience, or Three years of experimental or scientific work experience with a PhD or Medical Degree
• Preferred: Proficient skill set in one or more of the following: next-generation genomic sequencing, chromatin biology, functional proteomics, and cancer biology. Prior experience with genomic high-throughput profiling and analysis using tumor tissue in the cancer field is a plus.

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center offers excellent benefits, including medical, dental, paid time off, retirement, tuition benefits, educational opportunities, and individual and team recognition.

This position may be responsible for maintaining the security and integrity of critical infrastructure, as defined in Section 113.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code and therefore may require routine reviews and screening. The ability to satisfy and maintain all requirements necessary to ensure the continued security and integrity of such infrastructure is a condition of hire and continued employment.

It is the policy of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center to provide equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by institutional policy or by federal, state, or local laws unless such distinction is required by law.