Research Laboratory Coordinator - Thoracic Head and Neck Medical Oncology

Coordinator, Research Laboratory - Thoracic Head and Neck Medical Oncology

The department of Thoracic, Head and Neck Medical Oncology Department at MD Anderson is dedicated to the comprehensive care and research of cancers affecting the thoracic region, head, and neck. It brings together a multidisciplinary team of experts specializing in medical oncology, surgery, radiation therapy, and supportive care to deliver personalized treatment plans. The team focuses on advancing therapies for lung cancer, esophageal cancer, and head and neck malignancies through cutting-edge clinical trials and translational research. With a strong commitment to innovation, education, and collaboration, the department strives to improve patient outcomes and quality of life while contributing to global cancer research initiatives.

Ideal Candidate Statement
The ideal candidate will be an experienced laboratory professional with a proven track record in managing day-to-day operations and ensuring compliance with safety and accreditation standards. They should possess strong leadership skills with the ability to supervise staff, optimize workflows, and maintain seamless research activities. A solid understanding of budget preparation, purchasing processes, and grant application support is essential. The candidate should demonstrate technical expertise in laboratory equipment maintenance and inventory control, as well as the ability to plan and coordinate educational programs and in-service training. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced research environment are critical. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are required to collaborate effectively with faculty, staff, and external stakeholders.

What’s in it for you?
In this role, you’ll have the opportunity to lead and shape the operations of a cutting-edge research laboratory, ensuring the success of innovative projects that advance scientific discovery. You’ll play a key role in strategic decision-making, from budgeting and equipment procurement to staffing and workflow optimization. This position offers the chance to collaborate with top researchers, contribute to grant development, and influence educational programs that train the next generation of scientists. If you’re passionate about leadership, operational excellence, and making a tangible impact in research, this role provides both autonomy and visibility within the organization.

Minimum Salary: $68,500 | Midpoint Salary: $85,500 | Maximum Salary: $102,500

MD Anderson offers our employees an outstanding benefits package, including:
•    Paid medical coverage (zero premium) starting on your first day for employees working 30+ hours per week
•    Comprehensive Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D, and Disability insurance
•    Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and Extended Illness Bank (EIB) accruals
•    Paid institutional holidays, wellness leave, childcare leave, and other leave programs
•    Tuition Assistance Program available after six months of service
•    Teachers Retirement System defined-benefit pension plan plus two voluntary retirement plans
•    Employer-paid life insurance, AD&D, and illness-related reduced salary pay program
•    Access to extensive wellness programs, fitness facilities, employee health services, recognition programs, and employee resource groups

Job Responsibilities

Provides supervision and technical management in laboratory operations, which includes the authority to hire and evaluate performance.
Manage day-to-day lab operations, including workflow optimization, inventory control, and equipment maintenance, ensuring zero disruptions in research activities 
Prepares justification for legislative and operating budgets. 
Reviews and makes recommendations for purchasing based on anticipated work-load. 
Recommends replacement or purchase of new equipment. 
Assists with preparation of grant applications. 
Ensures that laboratory is prepared for isotope inspection and safety accreditation.
Coordinates laboratory educational activities. 
Plans and/or conducts in-service programs. 
Conducts laboratory research projects.
Determines staffing needs and schedules personnel to provide adequate coverage.

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 2025-2026 rankings. It is one of the nation's original three comprehensive cancer centers designated by the National Cancer Institute.