Research Investigator

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is a leading institution focused on cancer care, research, education, and prevention. The Research Scientist supports the Department of Translational Neuroscience through advanced laboratory management, translational neuroscience research, animal studies, and scientific collaboration. The Research Scientist plays a key role in maintaining laboratory operations, supporting innovative research programs, and ensuring compliance with institutional and regulatory requirements.

The Department of Translational Neuroscience is home to the Pan Laboratory, which studies neuron-cancer and neuron-glia crosstalk and how these interactions are influenced by modifiers such as genetic mutations and therapies. The laboratory's goal is to provide insights into the prediction, prevention, and treatment of nervous system cancer and neurological disorders. Using primary cell culture, genetically engineered mouse models, patient-derived xenograft models, neuromodulatory approaches, and cell and molecular biology techniques, the Research Scientist contributes directly to advancing translational discoveries. The Research Scientist works independently to support complex research initiatives while helping ensure the success of the Pan Laboratory's scientific mission.

The ideal candidate will have experience managing mouse colonies and breeding transgenic mice, extensive expertise in cellular and molecular biology techniques, and strong animal handling skills; In-vivo & In-vitro experiments. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to independently design and troubleshoot experiments, train laboratory personnel, maintain detailed scientific records, and communicate research findings effectively. A background supporting translational neuroscience, cancer biology, or related biomedical research programs is highly desirable.

Salary Range: $59,000 - $74,000 - $89,000

Why Us?
UT MD Anderson offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge discoveries at the intersection of neuroscience and cancer research. This role supports translational studies that advance understanding of neuron-cancer and neuron-glia interactions while providing opportunities for scientific independence, professional growth, collaboration with leading investigators, and meaningful contributions to improving outcomes for patients with nervous system cancers and neurological disorders.
• 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 Management & Compliance • Supervise general laboratory operations and daily research activities • Coordinate updates and revisions to IACUC and IBC protocols • Oversee mouse colony management and colony health monitoring • Coordinate onboarding activities for new laboratory personnel • Organize laboratory meetings, training sessions, and team events

Animal Models & In Vivo Research • Manage mouse colonies and breed transgenic mouse lines supporting research programs • Perform animal experiments, including drug dosing studies • Conduct behavioral assays to support neuroscience research projects • Utilize genetically engineered mouse models and patient-derived xenograft models • Demonstrate excellent mouse handling skills while maintaining compliance with animal care standards

Cellular & Molecular Biology Research • Perform cellular assays, including gene knockdown and proliferation assays • Conduct molecular analyses, including PCR, RT-PCR, Western blotting, FACS, and immunohistochemistry • Perform tissue collection, processing, and sample preparation • Conduct fluorescence microscopy experiments • Support studies utilizing primary cell culture and neuromodulatory research approaches

Experimental Design & Scientific Analysis • Determine specific research goals and experimental objectives • Design experiments with appropriate controls to support translational neuroscience studies • Critically evaluate research findings and interpret experimental results • Troubleshoot technical and scientific challenges to resolve research problems • Function independently in the design and initiation of research experiments

Training, Documentation & Reporting • Train laboratory personnel on experimental procedures and laboratory best practices • Maintain highly organized records and detailed documentation of experimental procedures • Compile, write, and submit project findings and scientific reports to supervisors • Communicate experimental progress and findings effectively 

Perform other duties as assigned