Research Assistant II - Surgical Oncology - Research

Research Assistant II

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is a leading institution focused on cancer care, research, education, and prevention. Within the Department of Surgical Oncology, the Keung Laboratory is dedicated to understanding the molecular pathogenesis and immuno-oncology of soft tissue sarcomas. The laboratory focuses on identifying novel therapeutic targets and treatment strategies and translating discoveries into clinical applications to improve outcomes for patients facing these complex cancers.

The Research Assistant II will support a highly specialized research environment that integrates clinician-scientists with direct access to patient tumors, enabling research that closely reflects clinical realities. UT MD Anderson brings together internationally recognized expertise in sarcoma research and multidisciplinary collaborations that accelerate scientific discovery. The Research Assistant II plays an essential role in advancing translational oncology research, and the Research Assistant II contributes to laboratory operations, specimen management, experimental execution, and data analysis.

The ideal candidate for the Research Assistant II role will have education and experience that support translational oncology research, specimen processing, laboratory techniques, data analysis, and scientific reporting. Individuals with experience in wet-lab methodologies, animal studies, database management, and research coordination are strongly aligned with the responsibilities of this position. Licenses and certifications were not specified.

Salary Range: Minimum $45,000 - Midpoint $56,500 - Maximum $68,000

Key Responsibilities

• Sample Processing & Cataloging
• Process human specimens according to established protocols and standards
• Maintain accurate and current database records for research samples
• Communicate regularly with the research team regarding specimen activities and data management
• Review data entries with the Principal Investigator and laboratory team as needed
• Meet weekly with Dr. Torres and/or senior research team members to review completed data entry
• Attend laboratory meetings and provide updates related to assigned work
• Research Projects & Experimental Execution
• Coordinate and execute translational research projects involving in vitro and in vivo oncology studies
• Conduct studies using patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models to evaluate novel and existing therapeutic agents
• Perform cohort-based drug studies in tumor-bearing mice according to approved protocols
• Plan and execute experiments using sound scientific judgment and increasing independence after training
• Evaluate experimental outcomes rigorously and adapt approaches as appropriate
• Acquire, process, and store tumor, blood, tissue, and other biological specimens
• Record, organize, and analyze experimental findings accurately
• Laboratory Techniques & Animal Studies
• Perform cell culture procedures and maintain cellular models as required
• Conduct flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, microscopy, and imaging procedures
• Perform RT-PCR and DNA, RNA, and protein extraction techniques
• Conduct western blotting and cellular assays according to laboratory protocols
• Prepare specimens for submission to institutional core facilities as needed
• Perform animal experiments and laboratory assays in compliance with laboratory guidelines
• Execute laboratory procedures independently following completion of training
• Data Analysis & Reporting
• Design and maintain scientific and administrative reports for research studies
• Assist the Principal Investigator with database entry and data analysis activities
• Prepare research results in tables, figures, and narrative summaries
• Analyze research data and adapt techniques to address research challenges
• Utilize Microsoft Office applications to support reporting and project documentation
• Apply graphing and statistical software skills when appropriate to research activities
• Laboratory Operations, Compliance & Professional Conduct
• Oversee daily laboratory functions including supplies, ordering, and inventory support
• Monitor equipment maintenance needs and assist with troubleshooting activities
• Maintain a well-organized and properly stocked laboratory environment
• Communicate promptly with the Principal Investigator and/or laboratory manager regarding safety concerns
• Demonstrate strong laboratory ethics, professionalism, adaptability, and time management
• Maintain compliance with institutional privacy, confidentiality, and HIPAA requirements regarding PHI
• Participate in institutional and external educational programs to maintain professional expertise
• Demonstrate excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills

Perform other duties as assigned

The primary purpose of the Research Assistant II is to provide technical and coordination skills in carrying out various research projects.

EDUCATION

• Required: Bachelor's Degree Basic Science.
• Preferred: Master's Degree Basic Science.

WORK EXPERIENCE

• Required: 1 year Scientific or experimental research work experience or no experience required with preferred degree.

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.