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Research Assistant I - Leukemia
Research Assistant I
The Research Assistant I provides support to the Leukemia department, contributing to research operations involving tissue culture, human specimen processing, and molecular techniques. The Research Assistant I assists with maintaining sterile environments, handling biological materials, and performing laboratory tasks essential to leukemia-focused research activities. The Research Assistant I also helps ensure accurate documentation, safe laboratory practices, and smooth workflows supporting investigative studies within the department. MD Anderson Cancer Center is a leading institution focused on cancer care, research, education, and prevention. The Research Assistant I works within this scientific setting to support laboratory operations, collaborate with research personnel, and facilitate the successful execution of leukemia research projects.
The ideal candidate for the Research Assistant I role has foundational laboratory experience, familiarity with sterile techniques, and an understanding of molecular and specimen-processing methods. Because no preferred qualifications were provided, the ideal candidate should meet the minimum requirements listed in the Requirements section.
Why Us?
The Research Assistant I helps advance leukemia research by supporting critical laboratory functions and ensuring high-quality sample preparation, molecular analysis, and specimen management. This role offers the opportunity to build technical skills, gain research experience, and contribute directly to MD Anderson’s mission in a setting that values development and work-life balance.
• 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.
Salary Range
Minimum Salary 39,500.00 | Midpoint Salary 49,500.00 | Salary Midpoint 49,500
Responsibilities
Tissue Culture, Human Specimen Processing & Storage
• Maintain and establish tissue culture cell lines using sterile techniques.
• Observe and identify cellular changes using a microscope.
• Perform cell counts using a hemocytometer or Coulter counter.
• Prepare sterile media and solutions.
• Monitor and stock tissue culture supplies.
• Prepare cells for cryogenic storage using small vials, dry ice, and liquid nitrogen.
• Process and store human blood and bone marrow specimens following established protocols.
• Handle and dispose of biohazard materials safely.
• Organize and manage labeled biological specimen storage.
• Maintain accurate inventory records for stored samples.
• Order and maintain reagents and consumables needed for specimen processing.
• Follow regulatory and confidentiality guidelines for human subjects research.
• Coordinate with research teams to support timely sample collection and processing.
• Communicate with clinical and research staff to resolve workflow or specimen-handling issues.
Molecular Techniques
• Isolate, purify, and analyze RNA, DNA, and protein.
• Perform hybridization, gel electrophoresis, autoradiography, and ECL staining.
• Conduct PCR reactions, quantitative RT-PCR assays, and DNA sequencing.
• Perform assays for signal transducing enzymes.
• Extract DNA and RNA from cell lines and primary samples.
• Prepare buffers and solutions requiring precise pH and ionic concentrations.
Laboratory Equipment & Maintenance
• Perform routine maintenance of ultra-low freezers, liquid nitrogen, CO₂, and water levels.
• Maintain equipment including centrifuges, pH meters, and microfuges.
• Operate equipment using information from manuals and procedures.
• Lift and transport items weighing 20–25 pounds using proper methods or carts.
• Follow institutional safety policies, OSHA standards, and Universal Precautions.
• Use required protective equipment including gloves, eye protection, masks, gowns, and lab coats.
• Conduct procedures in fume hoods or biological safety cabinets.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
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
