Research Assistant II / Interventional Radiology

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is a leading academic cancer center dedicated to eliminating cancer through integrated programs in patient care, research, prevention, and education. The Research Assistant II role supports innovative scientific discovery by contributing to research initiatives that advance image-guided therapy and biomaterials development. As a Research Assistant II, the selected candidate will work within the Interventional Radiology Department and the Diagnostic Imaging - Research Division under the direction of a Principal Investigator.

The Interventional Radiology Department conducts research focused on advancing imaging technologies and therapeutic approaches that improve patient outcomes. The Research Assistant II position supports the development and characterization of biomaterials, including hydrogels, scaffolds, injectable bone cements, multifunctional agents, and absorbable medical devices. The Research Assistant II will contribute to laboratory studies, data analysis, imaging research, and educational activities that support the mission of UT MD Anderson.

The ideal candidate will possess a Master's degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or pharmaceutical science and have prior experience with scientific or experimental research, nanoparticle fabrication, and in vitro and in vivo imaging. Individuals with a strong foundation in chemistry, biology, experimental design, data processing, and a willingness to learn new laboratory and imaging techniques will be well suited for this opportunity.

Why Us?

At UT MD Anderson, this role offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research focused on biomaterials, imaging sciences, and image-guided therapies that support the institution's mission to end cancer. Team members collaborate with leading researchers, gain exposure to advanced imaging technologies, participate in scientific publications and presentations, and benefit from professional development opportunities in a highly innovative academic environment.

• 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.

Responsibilities

Research & Laboratory Support • Participate in scientific research projects under the direction of professional staff members • Assist in the synthesis of scaffolds, multifunctional nanoparticles based on gold, SPIO, and polymers, microbubbles, liposomes, and micelles • Support the development of injectable bone cements and absorbable medical devices for interventional radiology applications • Prepare phantoms for imaging experiments • Process and maintain cell cultures independently without direct hourly oversight • Assist in collecting biological tissue from laboratory rodents

Imaging & Data Analysis • Process imaging data and assist with imaging protocol adjustments based on experimental findings • Support the characterization of biomaterials through in vitro and in vivo studies • Assist with the operation of clinical and experimental imaging scanners, including CT, MRI, PET/CT, and optical imaging systems, based on experience level • Apply scientific methods, data processing techniques, and experimental design principles to research activities

Research Documentation & Reporting • Compile research data and submit results for inclusion in publications, grants, and research protocols • Utilize word processing, spreadsheet, graphic, and statistical software to create charts, posters, reports, and research summaries • Present research findings during laboratory meetings • Attend seminars and review scientific literature related to ongoing experiments

Training & Collaboration • Train visiting scientists and students in research procedures and laboratory equipment use • Participate in and support ongoing laboratory research projects • Collaborate with laboratory personnel to advance research objectives • Demonstrate diligence, initiative, and a willingness to learn and implement new techniques • Provide administrative support for educational programs involving graduate and medical students

Professional Competencies • Adapt effectively to changing priorities, multiple demands, and evolving research needs • Support team decisions and contribute to a collaborative work environment • Communicate ideas clearly in individual and group settings • Gather and analyze information systematically to support sound decision-making • Pursue continuous learning, seek feedback, and apply new knowledge to research activities • Maintain technical proficiency, attention to detail, and high-quality work standards

EDUCATION

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

WORK EXPERIENCE

• Required: 1 year Scientific or experimental research work experience. or
• Required: 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.

Additional Information

• Requisition ID: 181999
• Employment Status: Full-Time
• Employee Status: Regular
• Work Week: Days
• Minimum Salary: US Dollar (USD) 45,000
• Midpoint Salary: US Dollar (USD) 56,500
• Maximum Salary : US Dollar (USD) 68,000
• FLSA: exempt and not eligible for overtime pay
• Fund Type: Soft
• Work Location: Hybrid Onsite/Remote
• Pivotal Position: Yes
• Referral Bonus Available?: No
• Relocation Assistance Available?: No

#LI-Hybrid