Research Scientist

The Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics conducts broad Phase 1 studies across disease boundaries and molecular targets. We strive to provide outstanding patient care while performing innovative Phase 1 trials with new drugs that may eventually improve the management of cancer.

The Research Scientist will play a key role in advancing translational cancer research by planning, coordinating, and leading research activities that support the development of personalized therapies for patients with advanced cancer. Working closely with the Principal Investigator, this role involves designing and executing research studies, analyzing data, processing patient samples, and contributing to high-quality scientific publications. Our lab specializes in patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models and molecular analysis to identify more effective, personalized cancer treatments. Candidates should have hands-on experience with all aspects of in vivo small animal studies and understand how PDX models and molecular profiling support translational cancer research. Additional responsibilities include managing in vivo supply orders, developing and maintaining IACUC protocols, and providing guidance and supervision to junior PDX team members. Successful candidates will have demonstrated experience leading in vivo studies from planning and execution through data analysis and final reporting.

The ideal candidate will have at least five years of experience leading research projects and extensive hands-on experience with mouse models and in vivo research. Prior experience managing research administrative activities, such as developing IACUC protocols and coordinating laboratory animal orders, as well as the ability to communicate research findings effectively to industry partners through meetings, presentations, and written reports is a plus.

Minimum $32.93 - Midpoint $41.11 - Maximum $49.28
The typical work schedule is Hybrid
Work Location: Texas Medical Center

Why Us?
At UT MD Anderson, this role offers the opportunity to directly contribute to pioneering cancer therapies through cutting-edge translational research. The position supports career growth by providing exposure to advanced laboratory techniques, leadership responsibilities, and collaboration with leading researchers, while maintaining a flexible hybrid work environment that promotes work-life balance.
• 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 Planning & Execution
• Plan, organize, direct, and participate in experiments and assays related to patient sample processing
• Perform technical research activities aligned with projects and grants led by the principal investigator
• Determine and establish research goals and objectives
• Plan and execute procedures in cell biology and biochemistry including tissue culture, PCR, western blot, and flow cytometry
• Conduct in vivo studies, including full project execution from planning to reporting
• Lead small animal testing, including placement and tracking of animal orders
• Troubleshoot experimental challenges to ensure project success
• Modify experimental procedures based on findings and literature review

Laboratory Operations & Sample Management
• Process blood samples within two hours of receipt
• Process, store, catalog, and analyze patient samples using biomarker assays such as ELISA
• Provide laboratory services including tissue culture and sample processing
• Maintain laboratory equipment and perform routine maintenance
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols for chemicals and hazardous materials
• Manage laboratory inventory including biologics and supplies
• Coordinate ordering of research materials and monitor supply levels
• Maintain safety reports including chemical and radionuclide documentation

Team Leadership & Collaboration
• Oversee personnel involved in research projects and monitor workflow
• Assign, review, and evaluate work of laboratory staff
• Interview and assist in hiring laboratory personnel
• Train and supervise technicians in laboratory techniques, equipment use, and safety procedures
• Collaborate with other laboratories and research teams
• Communicate experimental design and results to investigators and research staff
• Supervise junior PDX team members and support project coordination

Data Management & Reporting
• Maintain detailed and organized laboratory journals and ensure team compliance
• Monitor data quality, reproducibility, and research integrity
• Analyze data using microscopy and image analysis systems
• Interpret experimental results and adjust methodologies as needed
• Compile and submit research findings to supervisors
• Prepare scientific documents for publications and grant submissions
• Present research results to professional groups and internal meetings
• Review scientific literature and adapt new techniques for research improvement

Protocol Development & Compliance
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures and protocols
• Write and implement all aspects of IACUC protocols
• Monitor workflow efficiency and laboratory operations
• Coordinate equipment maintenance and procurement
• Support compliance with institutional and regulatory standards

EDUCATION
• Required: A Master's Degree Natural sciences or related field
• Preferred: A PhD Natural sciences or A Medical Degree

WORK EXPERIENCE
• Required: Four years Experimental or scientific work or two years experimental or scientific work with medical degree or No experience required with PhD
• Preferred: Must have experience with mouse work and at least five years of experience leading research projects and experience. Prior experience managing research administrative activities, such as developing IACUC protocols and coordinating laboratory animal orders, as well as the ability to communicate research findings effectively to industry partners through meetings, presentations, and written reports 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.