Research Assistant II Genomic Medicine

The primary purpose of the Research Assistant II is to provide technical and coordination skills in carrying out various research projects. We are seeking a highly motivated enthusiastic person to help a primary investigator/ clinician in a dynamic lab with numerous opportunities to learn cutting-edge cancer research and carry out various research projects performing routine in vivo and in vitro experiments related to cancer therapeutic development. Working with mice is a must. This position is also responsible for learning, operating, and maintaining laboratory equipment, keeping accurate records, and evaluating data in accordance with methods requested or established in SOPs.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience working with multiple in vivo cancer models and demonstrate a strong interest in pursuing a career in biological research or medicine. They should be highly motivated, detail-oriented, and technically meticulous when conducting experiments, with exceptional organizational skills and a strong commitment to accurate record-keeping. Success in this role requires excellent teamwork, time management, and the ability to efficiently multitask and meet deadlines. The candidate must also possess a solid foundation in molecular biology and microbiology techniques, including aseptic technique, bacterial isolation and culture, PCR, and DNA, RNA, and protein extraction.

MD Anderson offers employees:
* Paid employee medical benefits (zero premium) starting on first day for employees who work 30 or more hours per week.
* Group Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D and Disability coverage.
* Paid time off (PTO) and Extended Illness Bank (EIB) paid leave accruals.
* Paid institutional holidays, wellness leave, childcare leave, and other paid leave programs.
* Tuition Assistance Program after six months of service.
* Teachers Retirement System defined-benefit pension plan and two voluntary retirement plans.
* Employer paid life, AD&D and an illness-related reduced salary pay program.
* Extensive wellness, recognition, fitness, employee health programs and employee resource groups.
* Opportunities for professional growth through Career Development Center and Mentoring programs.

Key Functions:

* Perform laboratory techniques such as cell culture, DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, western blots, and flow cytometry.
* Learn and assist with GeoMx spatial profiling and CosMx single cell imaging/spatial multiomics.
* Perform mouse handling techniques such as drug administration such as oral gavage, subcutaneous and intraperitoneal injections, cardiac puncture, tail vein bleeds and injection, retro-orbital bleeds. Use surgical techniques and harvest tissues such as gut, tumor, spleen, mesenteric lymph nodes, and brain.
* Assist in the design of experiments.
* Assist in sample collection, logging, tracking for all tissues in lab, comprising of updating the database, storage and inventory.
* Conduct literature reviews to assist in determining most suitable methods to be used in research.
* Conduct diligent record-keeping and reporting, maintain an up-to-date electronic laboratory notebook.
* Presenting findings at lab meetings.
* Assist in the development and implementation of standard operating procedures.
* Assists in general laboratory operation, ensures the laboratory is prepared for experiments, perform related laboratory maintenance such as maintaining and cleaning equipment.
* Assist with monitoring and stocking supplies, preparation of stock solutions and other reagents.
* Monitors and anticipate laboratory needs in terms of equipment and supplies.
* Studies literature and confers with supervisor regarding new procedures.
* General lab maintenance involved but not limited to ordering or organizing laboratory supplies and ensuring maintenance of equipment.

Other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION:
Required: Bachelor's Degree Basic Science.
Preferred: Master's Degree Basic Science or Medical Degree

EXPERIENCE:
Required: One year scientific or experimental research work experience. No experience required with preferred degree.
Preferred: Experience with in vivo cancer models and a strong interest in biological research or medicine preferred.
Solid foundation in molecular biology and microbiology techniques, with strong attention to detail and organization, is highly desirable.

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.