Senior Research Assistant - Hematopathology (Digital Pathology)

The Department of Hematopathology at MD Anderson Cancer Center conducts innovative translational research focused on hematologic malignancies, including lymphoma and related blood cancers. By integrating molecular biology, cellular analysis, and emerging digital pathology technologies, the department advances scientific discovery that supports improved diagnostics, disease characterization, and therapeutic strategies.

As a Senior Research Assistant, you will provide independent technical support for multiple research projects while contributing to laboratory studies aligned with the department’s scientific objectives. This role combines hands-on molecular and cellular laboratory work with growing digital pathology initiatives that support modern pathology-driven research.

In this position, you will perform a range of molecular biology and cellular techniques, including DNA and RNA extraction from tissue and cell samples, quantitative PCR (qPCR), Western blotting from protein extraction through data interpretation, cell culture methodologies, and flow cytometry with cell sorting. These experimental workflows support studies aimed at understanding disease biology and identifying clinically relevant biomarkers.

A key component of this role includes supporting digital pathology initiatives, working with digitized histologic and immunohistochemical slides to facilitate image analysis, data organization, and collaborative research projects. By helping integrate digital slide data with laboratory findings, you will contribute to advanced research approaches that combine pathology, molecular analysis, and computational insights.

You will also play an important role in laboratory operations and maintenance. Responsibilities include maintaining laboratory equipment, preparing reagents and stock chemicals, monitoring liquid nitrogen supplies for cryogenic sample storage, assisting with Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) inspections, and managing laboratory supply ordering and inventory.

Strong data management and analytical skills are essential. You will maintain accurate records of laboratory experiments and sample databases, perform statistical analyses using GraphPad Prism (including ANOVA), and generate publication-quality figures. In collaboration with investigators, you may assist in preparing research manuscripts and help ensure that project milestones and deliverables for sponsored research studies are met.

This position offers the opportunity to work at the intersection of molecular research and digital pathology, contributing to high-impact scientific studies within a world-renowned cancer research institution.

MD Anderson offers a comprehensive total rewards package, including paid medical benefits, generous paid time off, retirement plans, and additional benefits, supporting professional growth, work-life balance, and long-term career development.

The ideal candidate will have a masters degree At least 5 years’ bench research experience in laboratory science and at least 3 years’ experience in digital pathology and computational pathology

JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES

1.       Research Laboratory Functions

·       Perform routine Molecular Biology experiments to include

·       Western blotting: From protein extraction to data analysis

·       DNA & RNA extractions (from tissue samples and cell suspension)

·       qPCR: Sample preparation, amplification, and analysis

·       Cell culture techniques

·       Flow cytometry and cell sorting

·       Provide technical support for digital pathology

2.       General Laboratory Maintenance & Supplies

·       Maintenance of general lab equipment

·       Prepares the lab for EHS lab inspections

·       Prepares common laboratory stock chemicals

·       Submits all orders for the lab and maintains supply inventory

·       Monitors sufficient supply of liquid nitrogen to maintain the best temperature for frozen samples

3.       Data Analysis & Record Keeping

·          Statistical analysis using GraphPad Prism, ANOVA and generating quality figures

·          Record keeping of all lab work including experiments performed and database of samples received & processed

·          Assists in manuscript preparation for publication in reputable science journals

·          Assist PI to meet deadlines and deliverables for sponsored research projects and strategic alliances 

4.       Other duties as assigned