Research Assistant II

Research Assistant II in Dr. Yun's Laboratory

Genetics is a basic science department located in the George and Cynthia Mitchell Basic Sciences Research Building at the world-renowned UT MD Anderson in the heart of the Texas Medical Center. The focus is on advancing knowledge of the molecular genetic mechanisms that regulate normal and abnormal cellular processes.

The Research Assistant II in Dr. Yun's Laboratory will provide technical and organizational support for research projects and general laboratory operations. The Research Assistant II performs daily mouse-related work, including colony maintenance, breeding coordination, genotyping, independent mouse procedures, and assistance with mouse experiments conducted by other team members. Under the guidance of the Principal Investigator (PI) and postdoctoral fellows, the position also performs additional biological experiments as needed. The role supports laboratory operations through sample organization, inventory management, supply monitoring, equipment coordination, and general lab maintenance. The ideal candidate demonstrates excellent communication skills, flexibility, reliability, and a team-oriented attitude to support efficient day-to-day laboratory operations and collaborative research activities.

The ideal candidate demonstrates a strong interest in scientific research. This individual is committed to a long-term role, is scientifically curious, eager to learn, proactive, dependable, and motivated to contribute to collaborative research initiatives while supporting laboratory and animal research activities.

Salary Range (40-hour work week): Minimum $21.63/hour – Midpoint $27.16/hour – Maximum $32.69/hour Work Location: Texas Medical Center Work Schedule: 100% onsite

Responsibilities include:

• Mouse Work: Organize, handle, monitor, and maintain mouse colonies; coordinate mouse breeding activities and colony maintenance; perform genotyping procedures; conduct basic non-invasive and invasive mouse procedures under approved protocols; assist with mouse experiments conducted by laboratory personnel.
• Laboratory Research Activities: Perform routine laboratory procedures and biological experiments; conduct experiments under the guidance of the Principal Investigator and postdoctoral fellows; assist with postdoctoral fellows' research projects under their supervision; learn to operate laboratory equipment and apparatus; perform routine operator maintenance on laboratory equipment.
• Documentation & Data Management: Maintain detailed and accurate experimental records; collect and organize information for project reports; evaluate data in accordance with requested methods; maintain complete and accurate sample inventories; organize laboratory samples and research materials.
• Laboratory Operations: Monitor and anticipate laboratory supply needs; maintain adequate stock levels of laboratory supplies; manage inventory and supply monitoring activities; prepare stock solutions as required; coordinate equipment maintenance and repair processes; perform laboratory maintenance and cleaning activities.
• Collaboration & General Support: Work closely with other laboratory staff members; maintain productive working relationships with technicians and research personnel; explain scientific protocols currently employed in the laboratory to staff members; support smooth day-to-day laboratory operations and collaborative research activities; perform other duties as assigned; collect and organize information for project reports and other required activities.

Education: Required: Bachelor's Degree Basic Science. Preferred: Master's Degree Basic Science and a Medical Degree.

Work Experience: Required: One 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.