Research Assistant I

The Immunology department at MD Anderson Cancer Center seeks to determine the fundamental cellular and molecular mechanisms of a wide range of processes by which the body recognizes and eliminates pathogens and use these findings to unleash the patient’s own immune system against previously treatment-resistant cancers. Treating the immune system rather than the cancer itself, the therapeutics developed are applicable to many cancers.

The Research Assistant I will apply technical expertise and experience to plan and carry out laboratory and/or clinical research projects in the research lab.

The ideal candidate will possess a Bachelor's Degree in a natural science, applied science, or related research discipline and demonstrate prior laboratory experience. Experience with immunology coursework or immunology laboratory techniques is a plus.

Minimum $18.99/hour – Midpoint $23.80/hour – Maximum $28.61/hour
Work Location: Texas Medical Center
The typical work schedule is Onsite.

Why Us?
At UT MD Anderson, this role offers the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking immunology research that supports the development of innovative cancer therapies. Team members gain hands-on experience with advanced laboratory techniques, animal research models, and collaborative scientific projects while building valuable skills in a world-renowned research environment that supports professional growth and meaningful work.
• 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
Tissue Culture • Maintain and establish tissue culture cell lines using proper sterile technique.
• Determine cell counts and cell viability using a microscope and hemocytometer.
• Prepare sterile media and laboratory solutions.
• Monitor, order, and stock tissue culture supplies.
• Prepare cells for cryogenic storage and re-establishment of viable cell lines.
• Package and ship cell lines to collaborators using dry ice.
• Coordinate coverage to ensure continuous maintenance of cell lines, including weekends and holidays when required.

Laboratory Maintenance & Research Support • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment.
• Order laboratory supplies and maintain inventory levels.
• Coordinate vendor service requests as needed.
• Perform bi-weekly wipe tests.
• Coordinate radioactive waste disposal.
• Follow written laboratory instructions and operational procedures.
• Perform basic immunological research techniques in vivo and in vitro.
• Conduct immunofluorescent staining.
• Perform ELISA assays.
• Conduct Western blotting and SDS-PAGE procedures.
• Isolate DNA and RNA.
• Prepare plasmids for research applications.
• Perform gene cloning.
• Operate PCR equipment.
• Assist with other laboratory duties as assigned.

Mouse Research Activities • Work with live mice in accordance with approved research protocols.
• Understand and follow IACUC regulations and approved animal use procedures.
• Complete required institutional training on animal husbandry, handling, euthanasia, hazard disposal, and veterinary care.
• Assist with maintenance of breeding colonies for three mouse strains.
• Maintain detailed records of mouse inventory and breeding activities.
• Perform tail snipping or bleeding procedures for genotyping.
• Wean litters and support colony management activities.
• Monitor tumor growth during experimental studies.
• Provide occasional weekend coverage to support ongoing monitoring requirements.
• Harvest tissues from mice.
• Prepare single-cell suspensions for downstream assays.
• Perform other duties as assigned.