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Research Assistant II
Genetics is a basic science department located in the George and Cynthia Mitchell Basic Sciences Research Building at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in the Texas Medical Center. The department focuses on advancing knowledge of molecular genetic mechanisms that regulate normal and abnormal cellular processes. The Research Associate II will support research into mechanisms of lineage plasticity in cancer.
MD Anderson Cancer Center is a leading institution focused on cancer care, research, education, and prevention. The Research Associate II will contribute to studies using organoid, mouse, and single‑cell technologies to investigate how genetic alterations and the tumor microenvironment reshape cell fate decisions. The Research Associate II will play a key role in developing innovative models to explore chromatin, transcriptional, and immunological processes driving therapy resistance.
The ideal candidate has a master’s degree in a basic science field and hands‑on laboratory experience with cell culturing and DNA/RNA workflows.
Salary: Minimum is $45,000, midpoint is $56,500, maximum is $68,000.
Work location: Texas Medical Center Onsite.
Why Us?
In this role, you will directly support research that advances understanding of cancer progression and treatment resistance, contributing to discoveries that may shape future precision therapies. MD Anderson provides opportunities for scientific growth, mentorship, and career development in a highly collaborative research environment while supporting work-life balance and long-term career sustainability.
• 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
Research Support
• Assist the Principal Investigator with research focused on lineage plasticity in cancer
• Perform and analyze organoid, molecular, genetic, and in vivo experiments under supervision
• Conduct genetic engineering of organoids and cell lines using CRISPR and inducible systems
• Maintain organoid cultures and conduct phenotypic assays
• Perform tissue culture including propagation of cell lines and viral production
• Prepare samples for single-cell and spatial transcriptomics
• Prepare Next Generation Sequencing libraries
• Conduct chromatin profiling, including ChIP-seq and CUT&RUN
• Perform multiplexed imaging and immunofluorescence
• Conduct flow cytometry, western blotting, RT-qPCR, and molecular cloning
• Assist with mouse genotyping, husbandry, tumor processing, and in vivo studies
Laboratory Operations
• Prepare reagents and buffers according to protocols
• Maintain equipment and ensure inventory is complete and up to date
• Follow all safety policies and maintain compliance with institutional guidelines
• Support general laboratory operations as needed
Scientific Engagement
• Read current literature relevant to laboratory projects
• Participate in experimental design discussions and protocol troubleshooting
• Present data at lab meetings and contribute to collaborative scientific discussions
Documentation & Data Management
• Maintain detailed electronic lab notebooks
• Apply best practices for data organization, recordkeeping, and research integrity
Other Duties
EDUCATION
- Required: Bachelor's Degree Basic Science.
Preferred: Master's Degree Basic Science or Medical Degree
WORK EXPERIENCE
- Required: One year Scientific or experimental research work experience or no experience required with preferred degree.
- Preferred: Prior hands‑on laboratory experience with cell culturing and DNA/RNA workflows.
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
