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Research Assistant II
The ultimate goal of the Cancer Prevention and Population Sciences division is to keep people in a state of health and wellness, preventing them from crossing the threshold to disease and requiring treatment.
The Research Assistant II provides technical and coordination skills in carrying out various research projects. Responsibilities include conducting experiments, assembling and operating laboratory equipment, preparing complex human and animal samples, evaluating data, and contributing to research focused on cancer metabolic pathways, novel therapies, and early detection biomarkers.
The ideal candidate for the Research Assistant II will have experience in environmental exposure research, mass spectrometry, wet laboratory techniques such as cell culture and animal handling, and bioinformatics skills. The ideal candidate is a highly motivated individual who demonstrates strong technical aptitude, attention to detail, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a research environment.
Minimum $21.63 – Midpoint $27.16 – Maximum $32.69 per hour, based on a 40-hour work week.
The typical work schedule is Monday – Friday. Work Location: Texas Medical Center.
Why Us?
This role offers the opportunity to contribute directly to cancer prevention and population sciences research at UT MD Anderson while developing technical skills and professional experience within a collaborative academic research environment. The Research Assistant II supports meaningful research that aligns with UT MD Anderson’s mission and benefits from a consistent onsite weekday schedule that supports work-life balance and long-term career growth.
• 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
Coordinates and Conducts Research Experiments
• Coordinate and conduct experiments and carry out research projects across biomedical and related basic science areas, including cancer research
• Perform laboratory assays using established techniques including animal models, cell culture and transfection, Western blotting, RT PCR analysis, and flow cytometry
• Test plasma, cell line, and tumor samples in accordance with validated protocols and study requirements
Operates Laboratory Equipment
• Construct, assemble, operate, and maintain laboratory apparatus and equipment required for experimental procedures
• Prepare reagents, stock solutions, and buffers and ensure availability of laboratory supplies to support ongoing research activities
Reviews and Modifies Research Procedures
• Review scientific literature and confer with faculty and senior researchers regarding new or revised procedures
• Assist with developing, validating, and modifying standard operating procedures to meet project needs
Records and Evaluates Data
• Accurately record experimental procedures and results in accordance with requested methods, SOPs, and research standards
• Evaluate data, compile data summaries, and contribute to reports and presentations
Communication and Teamwork
• Communicate effectively with faculty, laboratory scientists, clinical researchers, and collaborators to support study design and execution
• Contribute input, questions, and solutions as part of a multidisciplinary research team
• Perform other duties as assigned
EDUCATION
• Required: Bachelor’s Degree Basic Science
• Preferred: Master’s Degree Basic Science and Medical Degree
WORK EXPERIENCE
• Required: One year scientific or experimental research work experience or no experience required with preferred degree
• Preferred: Prior experience in environmental exposure research, mass spectrometry, wet laboratory techniques such as cell culture and animal handling, and bioinformatics skills 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.http://www.mdanderson.org/about-us/legal-and-policy/legal-statements/eeo-affirmative-action.html
