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Research Assistant II / Cancer Systems Imaging
The mission of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is to eliminate cancer in Texas, the nation, and the world through outstanding programs that integrate patient care, research, and prevention, and through education for undergraduate and graduate students, trainees, professionals, employees, and the public.
The Department of Cancer Systems Imaging is seeking a Research Assistant II to join the Frigo Laboratory. This role supports innovative cancer research by performing complex laboratory experiments, developing and optimizing protocols, supporting animal studies, and contributing to data analysis and presentation. The ideal candidate will bring strong technical expertise, exceptional organization, and a commitment to advancing cancer discovery.
The ideal candidate will have a bachelor's degree and one year of Scientific or experimental research work experience
Key Responsibilities
Research Support – 65%
- Perform animal handling responsibilities including monitoring health, maintaining records, and performing euthanasia and tissue collection according to endpoint criteria.
- Assist with animal-based experiments such as imaging procedures and surgical procedures.
- Extract metabolites from tissue and cultured cells and prepare experimental samples.
- Conduct small tissue grossing, processing, embedding, microtomy, immunohistochemical staining, and coverslipping.
- Optimize SOPs for staining, clearing, and imaging across various tissue types and markers.
- Utilize advanced imaging methods including fluorescent, confocal, and light sheet microscopy.
- Communicate findings to the Principal Investigator and contribute to data presentation for meetings and publications.
- Experience in flow cytometry and Western blotting is highly desirable.
- Perform additional lab duties as assigned.
Laboratory Organization – 20%
- Maintain general laboratory operations: restocking supplies, receiving and distributing orders, tracking inventory, and ordering materials.
- Dispose of biohazard waste, maintain glassware, prepare autoclave items.
- Monitor and maintain gas cylinders (O₂, CO₂), ultra-low freezers, liquid nitrogen, CO₂ and water levels.
- Maintain lab equipment (e.g., centrifuges, pH meters, microfuges) and ensure compliance with safety and OSHA standards.
- Contribute to overall laboratory upkeep, including radioisotope monitoring, reagent aliquoting, and solution preparation.
Technical Assistance – 10%
- Apply scientific knowledge to laboratory techniques using judgment, evaluation, and problem-solving.
- Stay current on methods through literature review and collaboration with supervisors.
- Develop and implement new procedures to support evolving research needs.
- Maintain accurate records and documentation for all experimental protocols and data.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in a scientific field (biology, biochemistry, or related discipline).
- Experience with animal models and basic surgical techniques required.
- Experience in histology, microscopy, and molecular biology preferred.
- Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a collaborative environment.
Why MD Anderson?
As one of the world’s most respected cancer centers, MD Anderson offers an environment where scientific innovation and meaningful impact come together. Employees enjoy:
Exceptional Benefits & Perks
- Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, vision, and prescription benefits starting on day one.
- Robust Retirement Programs: Including a 403(b) with employer contributions and Texas State retirement options.
- Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays.
- Tuition Assistance & Professional Development: Support for continuing education, certifications, and career advancement.
- Wellness Resources: On-site fitness centers, mental health resources, and wellness programs.
- Childcare & Family Support: Access to on-site childcare, backup care, and parental leave benefits.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support for work-life balance.
- State Employee Benefits: Employment with a stable, respected state institution.
Join Us
Be a part of a mission-driven organization advancing the future of cancer research. If you are passionate about scientific discovery, highly skilled in laboratory techniques, and motivated by meaningful work, we encourage you to apply.
EDUCATION
- Required: Bachelor's Degree Basic Science.
- Preferred: Master's Degree Basic Science.
- Preferred: Medical Degree
WORK EXPERIENCE
- Required: 1 year Scientific or experimental research work experience. or
- Required: No experience required with preferred degree.
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
