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Research Assistant II - Neurosurgery - Research
The Research Assistant II role supports scientific investigation within Neurosurgery - Research at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. This position focuses on hands-on laboratory research in cancer biology, contributing directly to experimental design, sample processing, and data integrity. The Research Assistant II works closely with research staff to ensure accurate execution of molecular, cellular, and animal-based experiments essential to advancing cancer research.
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is a leading institution focused on cancer care, research, education, and prevention. As part of UT MD Anderson, the Research Assistant II plays a critical role in sustaining high-quality laboratory operations and enabling translational research that impacts patient outcomes. The Research Assistant II position is designed for individuals committed to precision, collaboration, and continuous learning in a research-intensive environment.
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate for the Research Assistant II role brings foundational experience in molecular and cellular biology, including hands-on tissue and cell culture work, basic mouse handling, and general laboratory operations, with the ability to accurately document and manage research samples and reagents. Additionally, at least 1 year of scientific or experimental research work experience and general laboratory duties is also preferred.
Position Information
Salary Range: Minimum $45,000 - Midpoint $56,500 - Maximum $68,000
Work Location: Onsite
Why Us?
Working as a Research Assistant II at UT MD Anderson offers the opportunity to contribute directly to cutting-edge cancer research while developing valuable laboratory and research skills in a collaborative, mission-driven environment. This role supports professional growth through exposure to advanced research techniques, interdisciplinary teams, and meaningful scientific work that aligns with UT MD Anderson’s commitment to eliminating cancer, while also supporting work-life balance through comprehensive benefits and institutional support.
- 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
Molecular Biology and Cellular Biology Procedures
- Conduct experiments in cancer biology using basic molecular and cellular biology techniques
- Perform tissue and cell culture, including culturing and maintaining different cancer cell lines
- Process fresh tissue samples according to established laboratory protocols
- Maintain accurate logs of research samples and manage their distribution
Mice Work
- Handle experimental mice in accordance with approved procedures
- Measure tumor growth and document experimental observations
- Harvest tumor samples for downstream analysis
- Perform immunohistochemistry using paraffin tissue sections
General Laboratory Duties
- Learn and conduct additional laboratory methods and techniques as required
- Operate various types of laboratory equipment following proper procedures
- Maintain flexible working hours when necessary to support experimental needs
Laboratory Inventory and Sample Management
- Record and maintain a central repository of all molecular biology reagents and biospecimens
- Accurately label and log all samples to ensure traceability and compliance
- Monitor inventory levels and keep ample stock of laboratory supplies on hand
Additional Responsibilities
- Perform other duties as assigned in support of laboratory and research operations
EDUCATION
- Required: Bachelor's Degree Basic Science.
- Preferred: Master's Degree Basic Science.
- Preferred: Medical Degree
WORK EXPERIENCE
- Required: One 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
