Research Assistant II - Experimental Radiation Oncology

The mission of The University of Texas M. D. 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 University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston is one of the world's most respected centers focused on cancer patient care, research, education, and prevention. It was named the nation's No. 1 hospital for cancer care in U.S. News & World Report’s 2023-2024 rankings. It is one of the nation's original three comprehensive cancer centers designated by the National Cancer Institute.

KEY FUNCTIONS/JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES

•    Coordinates and conducts experiments and carries out research projects in the areas of DNA damage pathways, molecular mechanisms of genomic instability and tumorigenesis, tumor-suppressing qualities of the mitotic checkpoint protein Chfr and the role of protein deacetylase SIRT1 in aging and tumorigenesis. 
•    Constructs, assembles and operates laboratory apparatus and equipment 
•    Assist in experiments that require knowledge of molecular biology, cell-based assays, and tissue culture techniques.
•    Maintain accurate, detailed records of the protocols and experimental data.
•    Compile, write, and submit work reports to the supervisor.
•    Order centralized supplies, monitor lab expenses, and communicate cost-effective alternatives. 
•    Organize and develop training to ensure that lab members have current knowledge of specialized lab procedures.
•    Perform laboratory maintenance such as maintaining/cleaning equipment, organizing repair procedures, maintain lab stocks, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and provide general lab support as needed.
•    Help orient and train new staff or students.
•    Assist faculty with submission of MTAs, IBCs, IACUC, etc
•    Makes buffer, media, solutions, reagents for cell cultures. 
•    Attend seminars, including departmental seminars, to be well informed on latest scientific developments in field of interest
•    Other duties as assigned

Departmental Laboratory and Office Operations 
•    Support Assoc Dir, Laboratory Ops with departmental equipment by routinely escorting vendors, training new irradiator new users, refill reagents plus other equipment needs.
•    Assist in adding Teams TASKS to new employees and provide updates as necessary
•    Annually assist in the Asset Management Process by scanning required equipment and computers for inventory
•    Assist with reviewing and correcting safety deficiencies during the Shared Space Annual Laboratory Inspection
•    Assist with and collaborate on department initiatives
•    Assist with procurement process for the department including placing purchase orders, contacting purchasing and/or vendor for product availabilities/pricing and coordinating receipt of goods with receiving facilities as necessary, reviewing order requisitions for accuracy/completeness/ability to process, following up with/providing feedback to customers regarding status of orders and on various procurement issues, processing return goods requests for return to vendor, maintaining accurate procurement records, inputting information into PeopleSoft, coordinating and distributing procurement data to faculty and management, approving/resolving invoice exceptions, and making necessary corrections to orders placed. 
•    Serves as departmental primary Kronos Timekeeper to reconcile timecards on a weekly basis.
•    Assist with PO closeout process for the department including contacting vendors to confirm final invoice. 
•    Provide assistance with mail distribution and other onsite related duties as required
•    Other duties as assigned