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Research Assistant II - CNS - Radiation Oncology Research
Research Assistant II
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is seeking a Research Assistant II to support the Radiation Oncology – Research department. This department focuses on advancing cancer treatment through innovative research initiatives, integrating laboratory discoveries with clinical applications to improve patient outcomes. The Research Assistant II will play a critical role in supporting ongoing laboratory operations, coordinating research activities, and ensuring efficient management of resources.
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is a leading institution dedicated to eliminating cancer through exceptional programs in patient care, research, education, and prevention. The Research Assistant II position contributes significantly to this mission by enabling high-quality research execution and ensuring operational excellence within the laboratory. The Research Assistant II will work closely with faculty and research staff to facilitate seamless project progression and laboratory functionality.
The ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific field or a master’s degree with applicable experience, along with hands-on laboratory experience in areas such as sterile technique, molecular biology procedures (e.g., PCR, western blotting), and animal handling. Experience in laboratory management and operational coordination is strongly preferred, as well as strong organizational and communication skills to support a dynamic research environment.
Minimum $21.63 – Midpoint $27.16 – Maximum $32.69
Why Us?
This role offers the opportunity to contribute directly to impactful cancer research while developing expertise in laboratory operations and scientific investigation. At UT MD Anderson, employees are supported through professional growth opportunities, collaborative work environments, and a strong commitment to work-life balance, enabling meaningful career advancement while supporting a world-renowned mission.
• 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
Laboratory Operations & Management
• Oversee daily lab operations, including ordering, stocking, and inventory management for a team of 15+ members
• Coordinate laboratory logistics to ensure smooth day-to-day functionality
• Identify necessary versus redundant supplies, reagents, and materials
• Maintain organization systems to support efficient workflow and knowledge transfer
Mouse Colony Oversight (20%)
• Manage and oversee the laboratory’s mouse colony
• Ensure proper tracking, maintenance, and care of animal populations
• Support compliance with laboratory animal handling standards
Experimental Support & Data Collection
• Conduct phenotypic data collection including tissue and tumor measurements during necropsies
• Collect blood samples and assist with administering medications or radiation therapy to animals
• Assist in executing research protocols and experiments
Data & Documentation Management
• Maintain accurate and accessible laboratory records, both written and electronic
• Record and evaluate experimental data in accordance with established methods
• Ensure supervisor access to all research data and documentation
Communication & Collaboration
• Communicate regularly with supervisor through daily discussions, meetings, and seminars
• Collaborate with laboratory team members to support diverse research projects
• Serve as liaison for funding allocation and financial coordination to align operational decisions
• Engage in continuous learning by reviewing literature and discussing procedural improvements
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.
- Preferred: Some prior experience with sterile techniques for cell culture experiments, molecular biology (western blotting, PCR, etc), handling animals, and knowledge on lab management and operations associated tasks
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
