Research Assistant II - Surgical Oncology - Research

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is a leading institution focused on cancer care, research, education, and prevention. Within the Department of Surgical Oncology, the Keung Laboratory is dedicated to understanding the molecular pathogenesis and immuno-oncology of soft tissue sarcomas. The laboratory focuses on identifying novel therapeutic targets and treatment strategies and translating discoveries into clinical applications to improve outcomes for patients facing these complex cancers.

The Research Assistant II will support a highly specialized research environment that integrates clinician-scientists with direct access to patient tumors, enabling research that closely reflects clinical realities. UT MD Anderson brings together internationally recognized expertise in sarcoma research and multidisciplinary collaborations that accelerate scientific discovery. The Research Assistant II plays an essential role in advancing translational oncology research, and the Research Assistant II contributes to laboratory operations, specimen management, experimental execution, and data analysis.

The ideal candidate for the Research Assistant II role will have education and experience that support translational oncology research, specimen processing, laboratory techniques, data analysis, and scientific reporting. Individuals with experience in wet-lab methodologies, animal studies, database management, and research coordination are strongly aligned with the responsibilities of this position. Licenses and certifications were not specified.

Salary Range: Minimum $45,000 - Midpoint $56,500 -Maximum $68,000

Why Us?
UT MD Anderson offers the opportunity to contribute directly to groundbreaking cancer research that impacts patient care and advances the understanding of soft tissue sarcomas. This role provides exposure to translational oncology, multidisciplinary collaboration, cutting-edge laboratory techniques, and professional development within a world-renowned cancer center while supporting work that improves outcomes for patients.
• 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.
 

Key Responsibilities
Sample Processing & Cataloging • Process human specimens according to established protocols and standards
• Maintain accurate and current database records for research samples
• Communicate regularly with the research team regarding specimen activities and data management
• Review data entries with the Principal Investigator and laboratory team as needed
• Meet weekly with Dr. Torres and/or senior research team members to review completed data entry
• Attend laboratory meetings and provide updates related to assigned work
Research Projects & Experimental Execution • Coordinate and execute translational research projects involving in vitro and in vivo oncology studies
• Conduct studies using patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models to evaluate novel and existing therapeutic agents
• Perform cohort-based drug studies in tumor-bearing mice according to approved protocols
• Plan and execute experiments using sound scientific judgment and increasing independence after training
• Evaluate experimental outcomes rigorously and adapt approaches as appropriate
• Acquire, process, and store tumor, blood, tissue, and other biological specimens
• Record, organize, and analyze experimental findings accurately
Laboratory Techniques & Animal Studies • Perform cell culture procedures and maintain cellular models as required
• Conduct flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, microscopy, and imaging procedures
• Perform RT-PCR and DNA, RNA, and protein extraction techniques
• Conduct western blotting and cellular assays according to laboratory protocols
• Prepare specimens for submission to institutional core facilities as needed
• Perform animal experiments and laboratory assays in compliance with laboratory guidelines
• Execute laboratory procedures independently following completion of training
Data Analysis & Reporting • Design and maintain scientific and administrative reports for research studies
• Assist the Principal Investigator with database entry and data analysis activities
• Prepare research results in tables, figures, and narrative summaries
• Analyze research data and adapt techniques to address research challenges
• Utilize Microsoft Office applications to support reporting and project documentation
• Apply graphing and statistical software skills when appropriate to research activities
Laboratory Operations, Compliance & Professional Conduct • Oversee daily laboratory functions including supplies, ordering, and inventory support
• Monitor equipment maintenance needs and assist with troubleshooting activities
• Maintain a well-organized and properly stocked laboratory environment
• Communicate promptly with the Principal Investigator and/or laboratory manager regarding safety concerns
• Demonstrate strong laboratory ethics, professionalism, adaptability, and time management
• Maintain compliance with institutional privacy, confidentiality, and HIPAA requirements regarding PHI
• Participate in institutional and external educational programs to maintain professional expertise
• Demonstrate excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills

Perform other duties as assigned