Research Assistant I - Lymphoma Myeloma

Research Assistant I

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is a world-renowned institution focused on cancer patient care, research, education, and prevention. Within the Lymphoma & Myeloma department, research teams are dedicated to advancing the understanding of hematologic malignancies through innovative translational and laboratory-based investigations that support the development of new therapies and improved patient outcomes.
 

The Research Assistant I role supports critical biospecimen banking and laboratory operations that contribute directly to ongoing cancer research initiatives. The Research Assistant I will work with biological samples, laboratory equipment, and research staff to ensure high-quality specimen processing and data integrity. This Research Assistant I position offers exposure to a wide range of molecular and cellular biology techniques in a collaborative research environment.
 

The ideal candidate will possess a strong interest in laboratory research, excellent organizational skills, and exceptional attention to detail. Prior laboratory experience with biological specimens, molecular biology techniques, or biospecimen processing is preferred but not required, as comprehensive training will be provided. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to maintain accurate records, follow standard operating procedures, and work effectively in a research-focused environment.
 

Salary Range: 

Minimum Salary
$39,500
Midpoint Salary
$49,500
Salary Maximum
$59,500


Typical Work Schedule: Days
 

Work Location: Houston, TX
 

Why Us?
At UT MD Anderson, this position provides an opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge cancer research while gaining hands-on experience with biospecimen banking, molecular biology techniques, and advanced research methodologies. Team members have opportunities for professional development, exposure to innovative technologies, and meaningful contributions to discoveries that advance cancer treatment and patient care, while benefiting from programs that support well-being and 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
Biospecimen Banking & Sample Management 

• Support daily operations of myeloma biospecimen banking
• Receive research samples from assigned protocols
• Process research samples from assigned protocols
• Store research samples according to established procedures
• Interact with research nursing staff to obtain patient-derived samples
• Obtain blood specimens for research activities
• Obtain bone marrow aspirate (BMA) specimens for research activities
• Obtain tumor tissue specimens for research activities
• Maintain specimen integrity throughout collection, processing, and storage
 

Laboratory Operations 

• Operate laboratory equipment used for biospecimen processing
• Operate laboratory equipment used for specimen storage
• Maintain accurate laboratory records at all times
• Maintain detailed laboratory records at all times
• Maintain organized laboratory records at all times
• Follow established standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• Demonstrate strong attention to detail during all laboratory activities
• Maintain consistent alertness while performing laboratory tasks
 

Molecular & Cellular Biology Techniques • Process bone marrow specimens in accordance with established SOPs
• Process other biological specimens in accordance with established SOPs
• Isolate peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs)
• Isolate bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMNCs)
• Perform serum extraction procedures
• Prepare DNA samples for research applications
• Perform RNA extraction in accordance with established SOPs
 

Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Preparation • Prepare samples for single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq)
• Process bone marrow aspirates for scRNA-seq workflows
• Prepare single-cell suspensions for downstream analysis
• Perform GEM generation for sequencing preparation
• Conduct cDNA amplification according to established procedures
 

Documentation & Technical Support 

• Maintain accurate documentation of specimen processing activities
• Maintain detailed documentation of laboratory procedures
• Ensure compliance with research protocols and laboratory standards
• Demonstrate manual dexterity for precise pipetting techniques
• Utilize visual acuity to accurately handle small sample volumes
• Support research activities through proper biospecimen handling and processing
• Participate in comprehensive training to learn molecular and cellular biology techniques
• Gain exposure to a broad range of molecular and cellular laboratory methodologies