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Research Assistant I
MD Anderson’s Cancer Biology department has a long history of being a leader in the field of basic and translational cancer biology research. The Research Assistant I role focuses on coordinating and executing experiments across multiple disciplines including chemistry, biology, physics, and other biomedical sciences, contributing to advancing research initiatives.
UT MD Anderson is a leading institution focused on cancer care, research, education, and prevention. The Research Assistant I will play a critical role in maintaining laboratory operations, ensuring compliance, and supporting innovative research efforts that drive scientific discovery. The Research Assistant I position is essential in enabling high-quality experimental outcomes and continuous laboratory improvement.
The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor’s Degree in a basic science field with a strong interest in laboratory research. This individual is expected to demonstrate adaptability in learning new laboratory techniques, attention to detail in data recording and evaluation, and the ability to support compliance and operational needs within a research environment.
Minimum $18.99 – Midpoint $23.80 – Maximum $28.61
Work Location: Texas Medical Center
Why Us?
This role offers the opportunity to directly contribute to meaningful scientific research that advances understanding and treatment in oncology and related biomedical fields. UT MD Anderson fosters a collaborative environment where employees can expand technical expertise, gain hands-on laboratory experience, and grow professionally while contributing to impactful discoveries.
• 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 Research & Experimental Support
• Coordinate and conduct experiments in chemistry, biology, physics, and biomedical science areas
• Construct, assemble, and operate laboratory apparatus and equipment
• Read scientific literature and confer with supervisors to implement and modify procedures
• Record, analyze, and evaluate experimental data in accordance with established methods
Animal Handling & Related Techniques
• Perform mice colony handling, maintenance, and monitoring
• Conduct biopsies, genotyping, and skin surgery procedures
• Carry out related animal care tasks in alignment with research protocols
Laboratory Operations & Administration
• Support daily laboratory operations and workflow coordination
• Review anticipated workload and recommend purchasing needs
• Manage lab purchasing processes and communicate with vendors
• Maintain inventory and ensure availability of supplies
Equipment & Compliance Management
• Oversee the usage, maintenance, and repair of laboratory equipment
• Ensure proper documentation and upkeep of laboratory systems
• Maintain compliance with Environmental Health and Safety standards
• Support adherence to HIPAA and other regulatory requirements
Technical Skill Development
• Perform or train in tissue culture for human and mouse samples
• Conduct immunofluorescence staining and fluorescence microscopy
• Assist with fluorescent activated cell sorting procedures
• Execute molecular biology techniques including RNA, DNA, and protein analysis
• Perform laboratory assays such as Western blotting and PCR
EDUCATION
• Required: Bachelor's Degree Basic Science
WORK EXPERIENCE
• Required: None
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
