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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 world-renowned University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in the heart of the Texas Medical Center. The department focuses on advancing knowledge of the molecular genetic mechanisms that regulate normal and abnormal cellular processes. The Research Assistant II plays a critical role in supporting this mission through highly technical laboratory work and research support.
The primary purpose of the Research Assistant II in the McAllister lab is to provide sophisticated and technical laboratory work in medical and research related projects. The Research Assistant II will perform genotyping of mice, breeding and maintenance of colonies, in vitro cell culture, technical assistance with experiments involving flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, confocal microscopy, western blots, TILS generation, molecular biology techniques, cloning, transfection under the supervision of the principal investigator.
The position will also be responsible for assisting and maintaining general laboratory operations including basic work as well as translational work within the lab program and with research collaborators.
The ideal candidate brings a strong foundation in molecular biology and cell culture, with preference for a master’s degree and hands‑on experience in advanced laboratory techniques.
Minimum $21.63 – Midpoint $27.16 – Maximum $32.69
Work Location: Texas Medical Center
Why Us?
Joining MD Anderson Cancer Center as a Research Assistant II means contributing directly to groundbreaking discoveries that shape the future of cancer research. This role offers hands‑on scientific experience, professional development opportunities, and a supportive environment that encourages learning, growth, and balance. You will collaborate with leading researchers while gaining exposure to both basic and translational science.
• 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
Cellular & Molecular Biology
Perform flow cytometry, tumor‑infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) generation, expansion, and functional assays.
Isolate T cells from mice or cancer patients and conduct in vitro studies.
Prepare and stain tissue slides using immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and confocal microscopy.
Maintain and monitor tissue cultures using sterile technique, including evaluating morphology, viability, and proliferation.
Prepare sterile media and solutions and purify cells using established methods.
Molecular Techniques
Conduct Southern, Northern, and Western blots, PCR, plasmid preparation, and transfection.
Operate and maintain equipment such as high‑speed centrifuges, pH meters, and vacuum pumps.
Analyze reagents using SDS‑PAGE and agarose gels.
Work safely with hazardous substances following institutional guidelines.
Animal Care
Manage mouse breeding, colony maintenance, and genotyping.
Maintain an updated inventory of animal colonies and coordinate distribution for experiments.
Lab Management & Safety
Follow all laboratory safety protocols, including handling radioactive, chemical, and biohazardous materials.
Complete all required safety training and adhere to manufacturer guidelines for equipment operation.
Support general laboratory operations, including stocking supplies and maintaining equipment.
Record Keeping & Data Collection
Maintain precise laboratory records, experimental data, and protocols.
Prepare data summaries, graphs, slides, and tables using digital or manual methods.
Communicate results clearly with the principal investigator and colleagues.
Develop step‑by‑step written procedures and adapt new techniques from literature as needed.
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: Must have previous molecular biology experience and cell culture.
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
