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. 

SUMMARY
CNS Tumor AnaLYsis STream (CATALYST), is a cross-functional, holistic biospecimen analysis pipeline, which provides a streamlined workflow and comprehensive analysis of tumor specimens, as well as CSF, blood, and stool (microbiome) from all patients undergoing surgical resection. This position requires an individual with exceptional communication, multi-tasking, and organizational skills.

The primary purpose of the Research Assistant I position is to serve as the main processor of samples for storage purposes, including blood and tissue. This position will also serve as a runner for specimens.

This position will be 100% onsite. 

The ideal candidate for this position will have at least one year of research experience. 

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 

   

  Key Functions

Blood and tissue processing: 

• Process blood for storage 
• Serve as backup for tissue cutting and distribution to laboratories 
• Request courier service for blood/tissue shipment
  
  Blood and tissue collection log: 
   
• Enter blood collections into BIMS to generate TID, and associate the assigned collection request number with this new entry 
• Add the patient and collection data to the ‘TID and PID Log’ in the CATALYST Master Patient log (patient name, MRN, specimen number, TID, PID, and collection request number) 
• Update the CATALYST Master Patient log with the blood collection information, including which labs received blood for that particular collection 
• After processing blood, update the ‘TID and PID Log’ in the CATALYST Master Patient log with the number of vitals stored. 
• When the log is up to date for a particular collection, update the collection in BIMS to reflect how many vials are stored and which tubes were used for analysis 

Tissue and blood running functions: 

• Appropriately deliver blood and tissue specimens to laboratories where appropriate

Materials Compliance 

• Assist CATALYST Program Coordinator to prepare blood and CSF vial packets ahead of time to supply the OR holding area for CATALYST patients
   

  Other Duties as assigned
   

Why Join MD Anderson

• Be part of a world‑renowned cancer center recognized for excellence in patient care, research and education.
• Work alongside leading specialists who are shaping the future of clinical and academic medicine.
• Grow your career with strong professional development and learning opportunities.
• Contribute to programs that directly impact patient outcomes and advance medical knowledge.
• Join a mission‑driven organization focused on improving lives through breakthrough care and innovation.