(While navigating through the site, please be sure to disable your pop-up blocker.)
Research Assistant I - CNS - Radiation Oncology Research
The Research Assistant I supports the research mission of the Radiation Oncology – Research department by providing technical and coordination support for laboratory-based research activities. The Research Assistant I works closely with faculty leadership and laboratory team members to carry out experiments, maintain research models, and ensure accurate data collection that supports ongoing experimental radiation oncology studies.
MD Anderson Cancer Center is a leading institution focused on cancer care, research, education, and prevention. Within this environment, the Research Assistant I contributes directly to laboratory research efforts that align with the institution’s mission to eliminate cancer through discovery, innovation, and collaboration. The Research Assistant I plays an important role in supporting experimental workflows, maintaining laboratory operations, and advancing scientific understanding in Radiation Oncology research.
The ideal candidate for the Research Assistant I role has foundational laboratory experience in molecular biology or related research settings, demonstrates technical proficiency, communicates effectively with team members, and shows an interest or background in extracellular vesicle research, animal models, and developing new laboratory skills; education, experience, and certification requirements are outlined below.
Minimum $39,500.00 ($18.99/hour) – Midpoint $49,500.00 ($23.80/hour) – Maximum $59,500.00 ($28.61/hour)
Why Us?
This Research Assistant I position offers the opportunity to support impactful experimental radiation oncology research while developing valuable laboratory and technical skills in an academic medical environment. The role provides exposure to cutting-edge cancer research, hands-on experience with animal models and extracellular vesicle technologies, and collaboration with a multidisciplinary research team, supporting both professional growth and meaningful contribution to MD Anderson’s mission.
• 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
Laboratory Operations & Animal Models
• Oversee general management of the laboratory mouse colony, accounting for approximately 25% of effort.
• Accurately record phenotypic data, including weighing and describing tissues and tumors during necropsies.
• Collect blood samples and administer medications or radiation therapy to animals.
Experimental Research Activities
• Perform key experiments related to the analysis, purification, and quantification of extracellular vesicles, accounting for approximately 50% of effort.
• Utilize basic molecular biology techniques, including gene cloning, extracellular vesicle purification, cell culture experiments, and tangential flow filtration chromatography.
• Develop new research skills and techniques related to extracellular vesicle projects to support progress and maintain technical proficiency, accounting for approximately 25% of effort.
Data Management & Documentation
• Maintain clear, accurate, and accessible written and electronic laboratory records at all times.
• Record and evaluate data in accordance with established research methods and supervisor guidance.
Communication & Collaboration
• Communicate regularly with the supervisor through daily discussions, biweekly meetings, laboratory meetings, and department seminars.
• Collaborate effectively with other laboratory members to support shared research goals.
Safety & Professional Conduct
• Read and apply scientific literature to support laboratory procedures and research activities.
• Model safe laboratory behaviors and bring safety concerns to appropriate attention.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
EDUCATION
- Required: Bachelor's Degree Basic Science.
WORK EXPERIENCE
- Required: None
- Preferred: Some prior experience with sterile techniques for cell culture experiments, molecular biology (western blotting, PCR, etc), and handling animals is preferred.
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.http://www.mdanderson.org/about-us/legal-and-policy/legal-statements/eeo-affirmative-action.html
