Research Assistant II - Next Generation Sequencing (NGS)

The Department of Translational Molecular Pathology (TMP) plays a critical role in advancing precision oncology by integrating molecular diagnostics, next-generation sequencing, immunoprofiling, and digital pathology to support discovery and translational cancer research. TMP partners closely with investigators and institutional initiatives to generate high-quality molecular data that accelerates the movement of research findings from bench to bedside.

As a Research Assistant II, you will serve as a key technical contributor supporting both standard and innovative molecular research assays. This role independently performs complex laboratory functions including nucleic acid extraction from tissue and liquid biopsy specimens, specimen accessioning and processing, cell line preparation, and execution of molecular assays such as NanoString, digital PCR, and next-generation sequencing on Ion Torrent and Illumina platforms. You will also contribute to the evaluation and optimization of new NGS library preparation methods and assist with compiling research data for publications, grants, and protocols.

In addition, this position supports robust data management and quality practices through accurate recordkeeping, quality control documentation, and preparation of figures and reports. The Research Assistant II collaborates closely with principal investigators, senior research staff, and multidisciplinary teams, participates in internal and external collaborative studies, trains research personnel and students, and presents research findings as appropriate. Operational responsibilities include supporting lab organization, EHS compliance and safety, inventory management, and participation in SOP development for new platforms and assays.

MD Anderson offers a comprehensive total rewards package, including paid medical benefits, generous paid time off, retirement programs, and professional development opportunities, designed to support long-term career growth and work-life balance.

**The ideal candidate will have a masters degree, NGS experience along with tissue/accession experience**

JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES

Technical Functions
Independently performs work without undue reliance on others and assists co-workers as time permits. Extraction of nucleic acids from tissues and liquid biopsy. Correctly receives, accession, processes, and assures proper identification of specimens. Prepare and handle cell lines or other samples for developing controls for molecular analysis and testing. Assist in implementing and performing standard and novel molecular assays, including NanoString, Digital PCR, and NGS. Evaluate and develop new approaches for Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) library preparation for Ion Torrent and Illumina platforms. Compile research data and submit results to for submission to journals, grants or protocols.

Record Keeping and Data Collection
Enter and maintain data from research activities in notebook/computer databases as appropriate. Performs and documents all required quality control/quality assurance. Maintains accurate, detailed records and experimental data and protocols Prepares graphs, slides and tables via photography, computer, or manually. Collaborates or assists supervisor and senior research staff with preparation of reports and grant requests. Able to work with database, graphing and word processing computer programs such as Microsoft Excel, Power Point, Word and Prism Must be able to fully communicate results and understand instructions from principal investigator and colleagues.

Collaboration and Presentation
Interacts and participates in collaborative studies inside and outside MD Anderson. Trains other research personnel and students on established assays and use of laboratory equipment. Presents research data at internal and external meetings and conferences. Prepare final reports in the format requested for the data generated by the suggested due date. Willingness to learn and to help others in the implementation of new techniques. 

Laboratory Operation
Carry out lab duties like lab organization, EHS compliance and lab safety. Prioritizes and organizes workflow meeting productivity goals of the section. Responsible for participation in the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for new platforms and assays Monitors and maintains supply inventory so that work flow is not negatively affected. Other duties as assigned.