Research Scientist

The Sarcoma Medical Oncology department (SMO) includes faculty and staff involved in patient care and in clinical, translational and basic research. Aiming to improve survival and quality of life, our team of highly specialized medical oncologists, physician-scientists, advanced practice nurses, physician assistants and research nurses treat patients with localized and/or metastatic sarcoma. 

The Research Scientist provides scientific and technical support to faculty investigators by contributing to the development, coordination, and execution of clinical and translational research projects. This position applies advanced scientific knowledge to support research study design, data analysis, grant and proposal development, scientific writing, and dissemination of research findings. In addition, the position supports the implementation and utilization of AI-enabled research technologies, including Foundry, by assisting faculty with project setup, basic coding, workflow development, and the application of data-driven tools that enhance research productivity and innovation. This role serves as a scientific resource and collaborator, working closely with faculty and multidisciplinary teams to advance the department's research mission.

The ideal candidate will possess a Master's degree in natural sciences or a related field, with a preference for a PhD in natural sciences or a Medical Degree. Candidates should have experience supporting scientific or experimental research and demonstrate the ability to contribute to clinical and translational research initiatives. Experience working with large datasets, AI-enabled technologies, coding platforms, and collaborative research environments is highly desirable.

Salary Range (40-hour work week): Minimum $32.93/hour – Midpoint $41.11/hour – Maximum $49.28/hour
Work Location: Texas Medical Center
Schedule: Onsite

Why Us?
At UT MD Anderson, this role provides the opportunity to directly support groundbreaking clinical and translational research that advances cancer care. The position offers collaboration with leading physician-scientists, exposure to innovative AI-enabled technologies, and opportunities for professional growth through scientific publications, grant development, and multidisciplinary research initiatives while contributing to the institution’s mission to eliminate cancer.
• 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.

JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES
Scientific Research Support (Approximately 70%)
•  Supports faculty investigators in the planning, coordination, and execution of clinical    and translational research projects.
• Assists with the development of investigator-initiated studies, research concepts, and scientific proposals.
• Performs literature reviews and synthesizes scientific evidence to support research initiatives.
• Assists in developing grant applications, philanthropic proposals, manuscripts, abstracts, presentations, and other scholarly materials.
• Collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to facilitate research project implementation and scientific deliverables.
• Conducts data review, interpretation, and analysis to support research objectives.
• Assists with monitoring research project timelines and deliverables while identifying potential barriers and recommending solutions.
• Supports protocol development and other scientific documentation.
• Maintains knowledge of emerging scientific methods and technologies relevant to the department's research portfolio.
• Meets with Principal Investigators to identify research priorities and opportunities for data-driven scientific collaboration.
• All other duties as assigned.

AI & Foundry Research Support (Approximately 30%)
• Supports faculty in utilizing Foundry and AI-enabled technologies to improve research workflows and data analysis.
• Assists with establishing research projects and organizing data environments within Foundry.
• Performs basic coding and scripting to support research automation, data management, and analytics.
• Assists investigators in identifying opportunities to leverage AI tools to improve research efficiency and productivity.
• Provides individual guidance and technical support to faculty and research staff using Foundry for research activities.
• Maintains documentation related to Foundry workflows and research applications.
• Remains current on emerging AI technologies and data science tools applicable to clinical and translational research.
• Work with large datasets using coding languages/platform tools such as Python, R, SQL, Spark, Foundry, Microsoft Fabric, or cloud (AWS, Azure, GCP)
Other duties as assigned