Mouse Experience Research Assistant II

Genetics is a basic science department located in the George and Cynthia Mitchell Basic Sciences Research Building at the world-renowned University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in the heart of the Texas Medical Center. The focus is on advancing knowledge of the molecular genetic mechanisms that regulate normal and abnormal cellular processes.

The primary purpose of the Research Assistant II is to coordinate and conduct experiments and carry out research projects in varied areas of biology, genetics and other biomedical or related basic science areas. Skills include independently perform animal studies involving the following technical skills: IP injections, oral gavage drug delivery, sample preparations for sequencing or other pathological analyses, histology, subcutaneous or orthotopic tumor cell injections, environmental exposures, tracheal intubations, anatomical measurements, survival surgical procedures, tissue harvesting and processing, as well as genotyping, breeding, and maintain mouse colonies while performing general husbandry tasks. Experience working with genetically engineered mouse models of cancer, tumor implantation models, and drug treatment studies is strongly preferred. Proficiency with standard molecular biology techniques and mammalian cell culture is also desirable. Understanding of cell signaling or lung and prostate cancer is preferred, albeit animal experience in all areas is welcomed. The position requires strong organizational skills, honesty, reliability, independent decision-making, and willingness to learn and adopt new. 

The ideal candidate for the Research Assistant II role brings extensive hands-on experience with mouse handling, husbandry, genotyping, PCR, and tumor measurement. Experience with genetically engineered mouse models of cancer, tumor implantation, and drug treatment studies is highly valued.

Salary range based on a 40-hour work week: Minimum $21.63/hour – Midpoint $27.16/hour – Maximum $32.69/hour
Typical work schedule: Onsite
Work location: Texas Medical Center; onsite

Why Us?
This role offers the opportunity to directly support groundbreaking cancer biology research at one of the world’s most respected cancer centers while building a long-term scientific career. The Research Assistant Two contributes meaningfully to studies that advance understanding of cancer mechanisms and therapeutic strategies, while working alongside experienced investigators in a collaborative environment that values learning, innovation, and professional growth, with a strong commitment to 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

Lab and Animal Studies
• Plan, execute, evaluate, and interpret experimental studies using imagination, initiative, and inventiveness
• Work closely with Principal Investigators on lung and prostate cancer projects using genetically engineered mouse models, tumor transplantation models, and therapeutic intervention studies
• Perform laboratory studies including flow cytometry, tissue culture, growth and drug response assays, transfection, viral infection, nucleic acid extraction, PCR, immunoblotting, immunocytochemistry, and immunohistochemistry
• Conduct animal studies including tumor cell injections, viral delivery, genotyping, drug administration, imaging, necropsy, and tissue preparation for histological and molecular analyses
• Independently perform animal procedures such as intraperitoneal injections, oral gavage, tracheal intubations, survival surgeries, tissue harvesting, and environmental exposures
• Maintain, breed, genotype, and manage mouse colonies while performing general husbandry tasks

Techniques and Records
• Participate in development, refinement, and adoption of experimental techniques and protocols
• Assemble, construct, and operate laboratory apparatus and equipment
• Maintain accurate experimental records and organized documentation
• Ensure compliance with animal safety standards, protocols, and regulatory requirements
• Assist with training personnel in animal techniques

Reports and Grants
• Collaborate with Principal Investigators and senior research staff on experimental reports, data summaries, and figures
• Support preparation of materials for presentations, publications, and grant applications
• Read scientific literature and confer with supervisors on new or modified procedures

Laboratory Organization and Monitoring
• Order, organize, and maintain laboratory supplies
• Monitor laboratory safety standards and maintain hazardous material records
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of laboratory operations