Research Scientist - Experimental Therapeutics

Research Scientist
The Research Scientist role within the Experimental Therapeutics department at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center focuses on advancing innovative cancer research through the design, coordination, and execution of laboratory-based studies. The Research Scientist contributes directly to projects involving recombinant therapeutic antibodies and in vivo cancer models, working closely with a principal investigator while following established laboratory procedures and institutional standards.

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is a leading institution focused on cancer care, research, education, and prevention. Through discovery-driven science and collaborative clinical research, UT MD Anderson supports roles such as the Research Scientist to translate scientific findings into meaningful therapeutic advances. The Research Scientist plays a key role in supporting the mission of UT MD Anderson by independently designing and executing complex research projects that advance experimental therapeutics.

The Research Scientist role is well-suited for a scientific professional with strong laboratory expertise who thrives in a collaborative research environment. The Research Scientist is expected to apply advanced technical knowledge, contribute to publications and presentations, and support the operational and safety needs of a dynamic laboratory setting.

The ideal candidate has the education, hands-on laboratory experience, and technical background required to conduct cancer research studies involving molecular biology, cell culture, protein analysis, and animal models

This position is salaried and based on a 40-hour work week. The salary range is Minimum $32.93/hour – Midpoint $41.11/hour – Maximum $49.28/hour. 

Work location is Houston, Texas, and the role is onsite.

Why Us?
At UT MD Anderson, this role offers the opportunity to contribute to impactful cancer research while working alongside leading scientists in experimental therapeutics. The Research Scientist position supports professional growth through exposure to advanced research techniques, publication and presentation opportunities, and a mission-driven environment that values scientific rigor, collaboration, and work-life balance.
• 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
Research Projects
• Plan, organize, direct, and conduct experiments for cancer research projects
• Develop recombinant therapeutic antibodies with multi-functional properties
• Design primers and construct recombinant antibody expression cassettes
• Express recombinant antibodies in mammalian cell systems
• Perform functional characterization of generated recombinant antibodies
• Design and execute semi-independent research projects approved by the principal investigator
• Conduct cell culture studies including assays for cell cycle, proliferation, differentiation, and cell death
• Perform molecular biology techniques such as RNA extraction, PCR cloning, and point mutagenesis
• Carry out protein analysis including Western blotting and immunoprecipitation
• Design and implement animal models to assess therapeutic antibody activity in vivo
 

Animal Research and In Vivo Studies
• Perform tumor cell implantation and therapeutic antibody administration in mice
• Conduct intraperitoneal and tail vein injections
• Measure, observe, and document tumor growth and development
• Perform animal sacrifice and collect tumor specimens
• Conduct small animal imaging using institutional imaging facilities
 

Equipment and Supply Management
• Select and purchase laboratory equipment in consultation with professional staff
• Maintain and troubleshoot technical laboratory equipment
• Manage inventory of biologics and research supplies
• Order materials required for ongoing research studies
 

Data, Documentation, and Communication
• Compile, analyze, and evaluate experimental data for publication purposes
• Prepare graphs, tables, and figures using appropriate digital or photographic tools
• Submit weekly project results to the principal investigator in approved digital formats
• Maintain accurate, detailed, and well-organized experimental records and protocols
• Present research findings to professional groups and contribute to manuscripts and patent documentation
 

Laboratory Safety and Operations
• Adhere to all institutional laboratory safety and universal precautions standards
• Assist with maintaining regulatory records including safety manuals and MSDS
• Perform required laboratory safety testing such as radiation wipe tests
• Complete required institutional training and annual examinations
• Coordinate laboratory maintenance and operational responsibilities with team members