Research Assistant I - Cancer Systems Imaging

MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center is to eliminate cancer in Texas, the nation, and the world through outstanding programs that integrate patient care, research and prevention, and through education for undergraduate and graduate students, trainees, professionals, employees and the public.

SUMMARY

The primary purpose of the Research Assistant I (RAI) will be to provide technical assistance in carrying out various research projects.  The RAI will conduct experiments and carry out research projects under the direction of the Principal Investigator. He/She will do animal work, operate and maintain laboratory apparatus and equipment, collect specimens and experimental data as required, and record and evaluate data in accordance with methods requested.

CORE VALUES

Caring: By our words and actions we demonstrate caring toward everyone. 

• We are sensitive to the concerns of our patients, their loved ones and our colleagues. 
• We are respectful and courteous to each other and practice cultural humility. 
• We promote and reward teamwork and inclusion.

Integrity: We work together with professionalism to merit the trust of our colleagues and those we serve in all that we do. 

• We hold ourselves, and each other, accountable for our work – decisions and data – and for practicing our values and ethics. 
• We advocate for diversity and equity for our workforce, for those we serve and for our community. 
• We communicate frequently, honestly, openly and responsibly. 

Discovery: We embrace creativity and seek new knowledge from diverse perspectives. 

• We encourage continuous learning, seeking out information and new ideas. 
• We team with each other to identify and resolve problems. 
• We seek personal growth and enable others to do so. 

Safety: We provide a safe environment – physically and psychologically – for our patients, for our colleagues and for our community. 

• We create a sense of security and empowerment and are committed to keeping one another free from harm. 
• We embrace a framework and best practices for the highest quality of care and service. 
• We inspire trust by modeling excellence in our work and acceptance of each person’s contributions. 

Stewardship: We protect and preserve our institutional reputation and the precious resources – people, time, financial and environmental – entrusted to us. 

• We prioritize the health and well-being of each other. 
• We act responsibly to safeguard the institution’s finances. 
• We ensure the proper care and use of time, data, materials, equipment and property afforded to us.

JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES

Research Support  Conducts experiments and research projects, including animal experimentation, in scientific fields under the supervision of faculty, educational and/or classified research staff.  Maintains lab stocks and provide general lab support as needed. Execute analytical benchtop work following standard operating procedures and participating in the development or optimization of new protocols. Day to day work may vary and a high degree of flexibility is required. Must have the ability to communicate and collaborate with members of a multidisciplinary team.
Preclinical animal work: Assist in the development and maintenance of preclinical rodent models used in imaging to improve methods of disease characterization and development of new non-invasive imaging biomarkers. Perform and assist in small animal experimentation (intracranial tumor implantations, drug administrations, bioluminescence imaging, trans-cardiac perfusions, tissue harvesting, etc.)
Cell Culture: Cell line maintenance and establishment of modified lines via transduction of fluorescently expressed proteins within the cell. Cell lines will be used in animal models to monitor tumor growth and characterization. Work will involve aseptic tissue culture involving established protocols, handling materials under BL-2 safety conditions.
Ability to follow safety regulations and maintain a sterile working environment is a must. Histology: Perform small tissue grossing, processing, embedding, microtomy, immunohistological staining, and cover-slipping. Utilizing cutting edge fluorescent, confocal, and light sheet microscopy methods to image slides and whole tissues.  Registering ex vivo images back to in vivo imaging methods previously acquired for further analysis.

Laboratory Organization  Operates laboratory apparatus and equipment. Utilizes laboratory equipment to carry out experiments. Assists in laboratory maintenance such as maintaining/cleaning equipment. Assists with general lab functions such as organizing and restocking common supplies, receiving and distributing orders, ordering lab supplies, disposing of biohazard boxes, preparing autoclave items and maintaining glassware. Should be able to maintain and operate equipment such as high-speed centrifuges, pH meters and microfuges. Must be organized and be meticulous in record keeping.

Technical Assistance   Apply basic background in science to the application of laboratory techniques, using judgment, analysis and evaluation. Read literature and confer with superiors regarding new procedures. Master essential skills and techniques used in the laboratory. Develop new and novel procedures for carrying out assigned research by reading literature and conferring with peers and superiors; implement these new procedures. Records and evaluates data in accordance with methods requested., using judgment, analysis and evaluation. Read literature and confer with superiors regarding new procedures. Master essential skills and techniques used in the laboratory. Develop new and novel procedures for carrying out assigned research by reading literature and conferring with peers and superiors; implement these new procedures. Records and evaluates data in accordance with methods requested.

Lab safety   Maintain a safe laboratory environment by using proper personal protective equipment and strictly adhering to all safety regulations in place. Duties will include informing yourself on all hazards before working with any chemicals or equipment and offering new ideas to maintain and improve safety and compliance.

Other Duties as Assigned  

COMPETENCIES

With Inclusion, you understand that your ideas and contributions are valued.  You promote the same for others.  You address your own biases while promoting diversity and equity. (Competencies: Cultural Humility, Cultural Awareness, Cultural Intelligence)

With Drive, you see that you can serve as a leader whether you have a formal leadership role or not.  You tackle problems, move past setbacks and hardships, and don’t lose sight of your goals. (Competencies: Self-Confidence, Analytical Thinking, Innovative Thinking, Technical Expertise)

You demonstrate Professionalism by setting the example for others and consistently modeling MD Anderson’s values and service standards.  You communicate effectively in a variety of ways. (Competencies: Inspire Trust, Oral Communication, Written Communication)

Through Emotional Intelligence, you maintain awareness of your own emotions and the emotions of those around you.  Use nonverbal cues and feelings to engage others in an inclusive and responsive way. (Competencies: Active Listening, Teaming, Self-Reflection)

Having Coachability means you are engaged in relentless learning.  You constantly ask questions and stay curious.  You understand that the organization constantly evolves, and you should as well. (Competencies: Develop Oneself, Adaptability)