Research Assistant I - GI Medical Oncology

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is dedicated to eliminating cancer in Texas, the nation, and the world through integrated programs in patient care, research, prevention, and education.

The Research Assistant I position supports innovative translational cancer research that advances scientific discovery and contributes to improving patient outcomes.

Within the GI Medical Oncology department, the Research Assistant I plays an important role in supporting core laboratory research projects focused on molecular biology, genetics, tumor biology, and immune-based cancer research. The Research Assistant I will work in a collaborative laboratory environment committed to mentorship, professional development, and scientific growth. UT MD Anderson is a leading institution focused on cancer care, research, education, and prevention.

The ideal candidate for the Research Assistant I role possesses educational preparation and experience that support laboratory-based cancer research, molecular biology techniques, tissue culture, data management, and scientific communication. Candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in translational cancer research, a willingness to learn new laboratory methods, and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative research environment.

Salary Range: Minimum $39,500 - Midpoint $49,500 - Maximum $59,500

Hourly Equivalent: Minimum $18.99 - Midpoint $23.79 - Maximum $28.60

Work Schedule: Days

Work Location: Onsite

Why Us?

This role offers the opportunity to contribute directly to groundbreaking cancer research while working alongside experienced scientists in a highly collaborative environment. The position provides hands-on exposure to advanced laboratory techniques, translational research, and professional mentorship that can support long-term career growth while advancing the mission of UT MD Anderson.

• 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.

JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES

Laboratory Operations

• Carries out experiments in various areas of molecular biology and genetics in the lab, such as extracting DNA and RNA and running gels and making buffers.
• Maintains tissue cultures, including 3D organoid culture and immune cells.
• Works with and helps maintain a microfluidics device.
• Performs immune cell- tumor co-culture assays.
• Prepare biological specimens from animal models and patient clinical samples and perform histological experiments including dissecting mice, fixing and embedding tissues and immunostaining.

Record keeping

• Maintain accurate, detailed records of experimental data and protocols in accordance with methods requested.
• This involves the use of computers to analyze, organize and plot data and for entry of data into databases.

Communication

• Understand and carry out instructions both verbal and written.
• Communicate results as well as any potential problems with experiments, in a clear and understandable manner to the supervisor and in lab meetings.
• Read articles and references and develop step-by-step written procedures to conduct experiments as well as communicate this information to the supervisor and other lab members.

Safety

• Maintain a clean and orderly workplace.
• Have the ability and willingness to observe and comply with all institutional rules and OSHA regulations regarding biohazard and radiation safety.
• Working knowledge in the proper handling of hazardous chemicals such as phenol, ethidium bromide, acrylamide, and formamide.
• Basic understanding of and willingness to work with radioisotopes.

General requirements

• Working knowledge of various laboratory equipment and apparatus, basic techniques for handling chemicals and accurately prepare media, solutions, and reagents.
• Understanding of the basic scientific terminology and concepts central to cancer research
• An ability to perform searches and retrieval of information both through the library and online.
• A willingness to learn new techniques, to cooperate with other staff, students, fellows, visitors, and collaborators, and to assist in other laboratory activities as needed.

Other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION

• Required: Bachelor's Degree Natural Science or Applied Science in a research-related discipline.

WORK EXPERIENCE

• Required: None

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.

Additional Information

• Requisition ID: 183470
• Employment Status: Full-Time
• Employee Status: Regular
• Work Week: Days
• Minimum Salary: US Dollar (USD) 39,500
• Midpoint Salary: US Dollar (USD) 49,500
• Maximum Salary : US Dollar (USD) 59,500
• FLSA: non-exempt and eligible for overtime pay
• Fund Type: Soft
• Work Location: Onsite
• Pivotal Position: Yes
• Referral Bonus Available?: Yes
• Relocation Assistance Available?: Yes

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