Research Scientist - Neurosurgery - Research

The Neurosurgery department has developed a world-class clinical program to manage all aspects of neurosurgical oncology, including complex brain and skull base tumors, spinal tumors, and intractable, cancer-related pain disorders. We work to discover new imaging and surgical techniques and methods to effectively treat and manage pain. The goal of our research is to improve survival rates and quality of life for our patients. 

This role leads and contributes to both laboratory-based and computational (in silico) scientific research projects, ensuring effective planning, coordination, and execution. Responsibilities include supervising research staff by assigning tasks, setting goals, reviewing work, and refining methodologies to overcome challenges. The position also oversees the design, development, and modification of experimental equipment to support research objectives. Additional duties involve compiling and submitting detailed reports to leadership, as well as training technicians and laboratory personnel in proper techniques, equipment usage, and safety protocols.

Key Functions

• Leads the planning, organization, coordination, and execution of scientific research projects under the direction of the Principal Investigator (PI).
• Independently designs computational workflows to generate cell expression markers from single-cell spatial transcriptomic datasets.
• Conducts single-cell RNA sequencing experiments using human and mouse brain tissues. 
• Applies middle cerebral artery occlusion methods in mouse models.
• Demonstrates initiative and creativity in planning and executing experimental details. 
• Defines specific objectives, evaluates research data, and refines techniques or approaches to solve problems.
• Under PI guidance, develops new research directions based on prior experience. 
• Records and interprets results from murine experiments, including genotyping, tumor formation rates, survival statistics, and analyses of angiogenesis and endothelial barrier integrity in brain development and cancer. 
• Leads computational research efforts within the lab.
• Stays current with literature and techniques relevant to the field. 
• Presents data at weekly departmental lab meetings. 
• Prepares and delivers scientific analyses of results and contributes to the preparation of scientific publications.
• Understands and complies with institutional safety requirements and general laboratory practices. 
• Adheres to departmental and institutional policies regarding biochemical and radiation safety training. 
• Follows protocols for the safe handling and disposal of radioactive and biohazardous materials.
• Generates data for addition in first-author publications focused on brain tumor vasculature functions and strategies for targeting blood vessels in the brain cancer microenvironment.
• Maintains detailed, accurate experimental records in English using lab notebooks or electronic systems. 
• Regularly discusses data with supervisors. 
• Records and interprets results from both in vitro and in vivo experiments. 
• Keeps updated records of cell lines, analytical samples, and tissue samples generated or received by the lab.
• Remains up to date on relevant scientific literature and techniques in the field of investigation.

Other duties as assigned

MD Anderson offers our employees:
 

• Paid employee medical benefits (zero premium) starting on first day for employees who work 30 or more hours per week
• Group Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D and Disability coverage
• Paid time off (PTO) and Extended Illness Bank (EIB) paid leave accruals
• Paid institutional holidays, wellness leave, childcare leave, and other paid leave programs
• Tuition Assistance Program after six months of service
• Teachers Retirement System defined-benefit pension plan and two voluntary retirement plans
• Employer paid life, AD&D and an illness-related reduced salary pay program
• Extensive wellness, recognition, fitness, employee health programs and employee resource groups