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Research Assistant I - Leukemia
Research Assistant I - Leukemia
The Research Assistant I supports laboratory-based research within the Leukemia department by performing routine experimental procedures and maintaining laboratory operations essential to research success. The Research Assistant I works under supervision to carry out tissue culture, molecular techniques, and equipment maintenance in compliance with institutional safety standards. This role contributes directly to ongoing leukemia research efforts through accurate execution of established protocols and careful documentation of laboratory activities. MD Anderson Cancer Center is a leading institution focused on cancer care, research, education, and prevention. The Research Assistant I plays an important role in advancing scientific discovery by supporting laboratory research that contributes to improved understanding and treatment of leukemia. The Research Assistant I position offers hands-on exposure to research methodologies in a structured laboratory environment.
The ideal candidate for the Research Assistant I role has hands-on laboratory experience with tissue culture and molecular biology techniques, demonstrates strong attention to sterile technique and safety compliance, and is comfortable operating and maintaining laboratory equipment. Familiarity with RNA, DNA, and protein analysis, basic buffer preparation, and laboratory safety practices aligns well with the expectations of the Research Assistant I position.
Salary Range
Minimum Salary: $39,500
Midpoint Salary: $49,500
Maximum Salary: $59,500
Why Us?
The Research Assistant I role provides the opportunity to contribute to meaningful leukemia research at MD Anderson Cancer Center while developing foundational laboratory skills in a collaborative and safety-focused environment. This position supports professional growth through hands-on research experience and contributes to work that directly advances the institution’s mission to eliminate cancer.
• 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 sterile technique
Observe and identify cell morphology and changes using microscopy
Determine cell counts using hemocytometer or coulter counter
Perform colony counts and assess cell viability
Prepare sterile media and laboratory solutions
Monitor, organize, and shelve tissue culture supplies
Prepare cells for cryogenic storage and reestablishment using vials, dry ice, and liquid nitrogen
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, DNA sequencing, and enzyme assays
Perform purification and conjugation of immunoglobulins
Prepare solutions and buffers with precise ionic concentration and pH
Follow safety procedures when working with radioisotopes
Laboratory Equipment & Maintenance
Perform routine maintenance of ultra-low freezers
Monitor liquid nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and water levels
Maintain laboratory equipment including high-speed centrifuges, pH meters, and microcentrifuges
Manually operate laboratory equipment and reference manuals as needed
Transport laboratory materials weighing up to 20–25 pounds using appropriate equipment
Comply with institutional safety policies, Universal Precautions, and OSHA standards
Additional Duties
Perform other laboratory-related 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
