Research Assistant II

The Breast Medical Oncology department seeks to improve the survival of breast cancer patients, provide new knowledge through research, patient-centered clinical care, cancer prevention, and education and outreach with the ultimate goal of eliminating breast cancer.

The Research Assistant II will perform breast cancer research laboratory experiments with minimal supervision from research faculty. The role requires proficiency in core molecular biology techniques, such as Western blotting, nucleic acid purification, Real-Time PCR, ELISA and mammalian tissue culture. Experience with in vivo mouse work is highly desirable. Additional responsibilities include mainlining laboratory supplies and reagents, placing and tracking orders, and assisting faculty in data acquisition, organization and analysis.

The ideal candidate will possess hands-on experience in cell culture techniques, demonstrated proficiency in molecular and cellular biology methodologies, and experience with in vivo mouse models is preferred.

Minimum $21.63 - Midpoint $27.16 - Maximum $32.69 per hour based on a 40-hour work week.
Work location: Texas Medical Center, onsite.

Why Us?

This role offers the opportunity to contribute to impactful breast cancer research at UT MD Anderson while gaining hands-on experience in advanced laboratory techniques, in vivo research models, and collaborative scientific discovery. The Research Assistant II role supports professional development within a mission-driven organization committed to improving patient outcomes and advancing cancer research.
• 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 Support
• Design and execute molecular biology experiments including DNA, RNA, and protein extraction and quantification
• Perform agarose and SDS-PAGE gel electrophoresis, real-time quantitative RT-PCR, ELISA, and recombinant DNA cloning
• Perform and optimize mammalian cell culture workflows including maintenance, passaging, cryopreservation, and contamination control
• Analyze and interpret experimental data and prepare figures and summaries for lab meetings, reports, and publications
• Manage multiple concurrent research projects while meeting timelines and research objectives
• Maintain detailed experimental documentation to ensure data integrity and reproducibility
• Establish and manage mouse models including orthotopic and subcutaneous tumor implantation
• Perform in vivo procedures such as oral gavage and intraperitoneal injections
• Monitor animal health, tumor growth, and treatment response and record in vivo data
• Design and execute in vivo tumor growth and therapeutic efficacy studies in compliance with IACUC protocols

Data Management & Record Keeping
• Maintain detailed electronic laboratory notebooks documenting procedures, results, and sample tracking
• Curate, validate, and organize datasets for analysis and reporting
• Ensure documentation remains accurate, compliant, and audit-ready

Laboratory Operations
• Maintain laboratory organization, inventory, and workflow coordination
• Prepare reagents and media using precise molarity calculations
• Operate, calibrate, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment
• Monitor critical equipment parameters and initiate maintenance or repair requests
• Safely handle hazardous chemicals and biological materials in compliance with OSHA and institutional guidelines

Collaboration
• Collaborate with faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and research staff to advance project goals
• Communicate experimental progress, challenges, and results clearly and effectively
• Coordinate weekend and holiday schedules to support continuity of animal studies
• Perform other duties as assigned

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

WORK EXPERIENCE
• Required: One year scientific or experimental research work experience or no experience required with preferred degree
• Preferred: Experience in cell culture techniques, experience with molecular and cellular technical skills is a must and experience in vivo work using mouse models is a plus

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.