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Research Assistant I - Cancer Systems Imaging / Part Time
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center is to eliminate cancer in Texas, the nation, and the world through outstanding programs that integrate patient care, research and prevention, and through education for undergraduate and graduate students, trainees, professionals, employees and the public.
SUMMARY
The primary purpose of the Research Assistant I (RAI) will be to provide technical assistance in carrying out various research projects. The RAI will conduct experiments and carry out research projects under the direction of direct supervisor. He/She will operate and maintain laboratory apparatus and equipment, collect specimens and experimental data as required, record and evaluate data in accordance with methods requested.
Shift / Hours: Part Time / 20 hours
Ideal Candidate: will have experience with multiple imaging modalities, as well as histological staining and immunohistochemistry techniques.
JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES
Research Support
Conducts experiments and research projects in scientific fields under the supervision of faculty, educational and/or classified research staff. Maintains lab stocks and provide general lab support as needed. Execute analytical benchtop work following standard operating procedures and participating in the development or optimization of new protocols. Day to day work may vary and a high degree of flexibility is required. Must have the ability to communicate and collaborate with members of a multidisciplinary team.
Laboratory Organization
Operates laboratory apparatus and equipment. Utilizes laboratory equipment to carry out experiments. Assists in laboratory maintenance such as maintaining/cleaning equipment. Assists with general lab functions such as organizing and restocking common supplies, receiving and distributing orders, ordering lab supplies, disposing of biohazard boxes, preparing autoclave items and maintaining glassware. Should be able to maintain and operate equipment such as high-speed centrifuges, pH meters and microfuges. Must be organized and be meticulous in record keeping
Technical Assistance
Apply basic background in science to the application of laboratory techniques, using judgment, analysis and evaluation. Read literature and confer with superiors regarding new procedures. Master essential skills and techniques used in the laboratory. Develop new and novel procedures for carrying out assigned research by reading literature and conferring with peers and superiors; implement these new procedures. Records and evaluates data in accordance with methods requested.
Preclinical Animal work
Assist in the development and maintenance of preclinical rodent models used in imaging to improve methods of disease characterization and development of new non-invasive imaging biomarkers. Perform and assist in small animal experimentation, including post harvesting tissue processing, imaging, and analysis.
Cell Culture
Cell line maintenance and establishment of modified lines via transduction of fluorescently expressed proteins within the cell. Cell lines will be used in animal models to monitor tumor growth and characterization. Work will involve aseptic tissue culture involving established protocols, handling materials under BL-2 safety conditions. Ability to follow safety regulations and maintain a sterile working environment is a must.
Histology
Perform small tissue grossing, processing, embedding, microtomy, immunohistological staining, and cover-slipping. Utilizing cutting edge fluorescent, confocal, and light sheet microscopy methods to image slides and whole tissues. Registering ex vivo images back to in vivo imaging methods previously acquired for further analysis.
Lab safety
Maintain a safe laboratory environment by using proper personal protective equipment and strictly adhering to all safety regulations in place. Duties will include informing yourself on all hazards before working with any chemicals or equipment and offering new ideas to maintain and improve safety and compliance.
Other duties as assigned
REQUIREMENTS
Education Required: Bachelor’s degree with major course works in one of the basic sciences.
Preferred Education: Master’s Level Degree
Certification Required: None
Preferred Certification: None
Experience Required: No experience.
Preferred Experience: Candidates with experience in histological techniques.Basic math, quantitative and analytical skills.
Onsite Presence: Is Required, Part-time 20 hours/week
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. http://www.mdanderson.org/about-us/legal-and-policy/legal-statements/eeo-affirmative-action.html
