Research Assistant I - Neurosurgery - Research

The Neurosurgery department has developed a world-class clinical program to manage all aspects of neurosurgical oncology, including complex brain and skull base tumors, spinal tumors, and intractable, cancer-related pain disorders. We work to discover new imaging and surgical techniques and methods to effectively treat and manage pain. The goal of our research is to improve survival rates and quality of life for our patients. 

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree with a Major in Neuroscience, as well as experience conducting wet lab experiments. 

At MD Anderson, we offer careers built on care, growth, and balance. Our employees enjoy a benefits package designed to support every stage of life, starting on day one.

• Paid employee medical benefits (zero premium) starting on first day for employees who work 30 or more hours per week
• Group Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D and Disability coverage
• Paid time off (PTO) and Extended Illness Bank (EIB) paid leave accruals
• Paid institutional holidays, wellness leave, childcare leave, and other paid leave programs
• Tuition Assistance Program after six months of service
• Teachers Retirement System defined-benefit pension plan and two voluntary retirement plans
• Employer paid life, AD&D and an illness-related reduced salary pay program
• Extensive wellness, recognition, fitness, employee health programs and employee resource groups

Research Planning and Experimental Design

• Plans, organizes, coordinates, and participates in scientific research projects under the direction of a professional staff member.
• Functions independently in designing research experiments involving the generation and maintenance of genetically engineered mice.
• Characterizes various genetically engineered mouse models and performs complex intercrosses between murine strains.
• Uses initiative and creativity when planning and executing experimental details.
• Determines specific project goals and objectives, evaluates research data, and develops or adjusts techniques to address research challenges.

Research Execution, Analysis, and Presentation

• Under the direction of the principal investigator or designee, develops new areas of investigation based on prior experience.
• Records and interprets results from murine experiments, including genotypes, tumor formation rates, survival statistics, and studies of angiogenesis and endothelial barrier integrity in brain development and cancer.
• Manages laboratory, including murine colony maintenance and breeding activities.
• Stays current on relevant scientific literature, research methods, and laboratory techniques.
• Presents data at weekly departmental laboratory meetings.
• Prepares and presents scientific analyses of research results and assists with preparing scientific publications.

Safety, Compliance, and Laboratory Management

• Maintains knowledge of institutional safety requirements and general laboratory practices.
• Complies with all departmental and institutional biochemical and radiation safety training requirements.
• Follows established procedures for safe handling and disposal of radioactive and biohazardous materials.
• Maintains records for all radioisotope purchases, handling, storage, and disposal in accordance with UTMDACC and government regulations.
• Orders laboratory supplies and reagents, monitors their arrival, and coordinates distribution.
• Maintains laboratory cell stocks, including keeping an up-to-date inventory log.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Why Join MD Anderson

• Be part of a world‑class Neurosurgery program advancing innovative imaging, surgical, and pain‑management approaches that directly impact patient survival and quality of life.
• Work in a cutting‑edge research environment with hands‑on involvement in genetically engineered mouse models, translational oncology studies, and scientific discovery.
• Grow your career with exceptional benefits starting day one, including zero‑premium medical coverage, paid leave programs, and comprehensive wellness resources.
• Access robust professional development opportunities, including tuition assistance, scientific presentation experience, and exposure to high‑impact publications.
• Build a meaningful career at a mission-driven institution consistently ranked among the top cancer centers in the world, where your work supports life‑changing patient outcomes.