Research Intern - Translational Molecular Pathology

The Calin lab seeks a Research Intern to develop proficiency in molecular biology lab techniques related to non-coding RNAs and coding genes. Research in the Calin Lab at MD Anderson focuses on miRNAs and other ncRNAs in cancer initiation, progression and metastasis.

With the discovery, in the last few years, of thousands of genes that produce small, non-coding RNA (ncRNA) transcripts with no significant open reading frame named microRNAs (miRNAs), it has become evident that the genomic complexity of the cancer cell is far greater than expected. The development and testing of non-coding RNAs cancer markers and of miRNA-based cancer gene therapy are rational further steps in the identification of new options for curing cancer patients.

All duties and responsibilities are carried out in compliance with institutional policies, ethical research standards, and applicable federal and state regulations.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
1. Learn molecular biology techniques including PCR, qPCR, agarose gel electrophoresis by obtaining samples from cells and processing them for DNA, RNA and protein isolation, and concentration measurements.
2. Learn cell culture work and conduct in vitro assays by participating in a project utilizing human cancer cell lines, performing in vitro functional assays including proliferation assays and transfections with plasmid vectors.
3. Learn how to present and critically evaluate scientific results through routine discussions with the PI/mentor and presentation of progress in routine lab meetings.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
Applicant must hold a bachelor's or master's degree
Degree must have been obtained recently (within one year)
Applicant must have previous research experience.
Applicants who hold a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree (e.g., M.D., D.V.M., M.B.B.S.) are not eligible
Applicants should not be enrolled in a degree granting program as a student
Applicants in a clinical position, postdoctoral fellowship, or faculty position do not qualify
Research Interns cannot change titles to another trainee title upon completion. (Exception applies if the trainee enrolls in a degree-seeking program.)
The appointee trains under the supervision of a faculty member/mentor

ADDITIONAL APPLICATION INFORMATION

POSITION INFORMATION
Offsite work arrangements are subject to approval and may be modified or revoked at any time based on business needs, performance considerations, or regulatory requirements.

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.