Research Scientist - Neurosurgery - Research

The Research Scientist role at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center supports scientific and endovascular research within Neurosurgery. The Research Scientist is responsible for independently leading research initiatives, supervising laboratory operations, and contributing to the advancement of translational and clinical science aligned with institutional priorities. Through close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, the Research Scientist advances innovation and rigor across complex research projects.

The Research Scientist position at UT MD Anderson plays a critical role in fulfilling the institution’s mission of eliminating cancer through research, education, and prevention. MD Anderson Cancer Center is a leading institution focused on cancer care, research, education, and prevention. The Research Scientist contributes scientific expertise, leadership, and scholarly output that supports institutional excellence and national visibility.

This position will be focusing on development of intra-arterial delivery of novel therapeutic agents for the treatment of high grade glioma and other brain cancers.

The candidate will use pre-clinical models of brain tumors to test intra-arterial delivery of various novel therapeutic agents, in combination with BBB disruption, and oversee translational efforts within the Endovascular Surgical Neuro-Oncology Lab. The position requires knowledge and experience of neurologic disorders and neuro-oncology, hands-on experience in experimental surgery (especially carotid artery infusion or middle cerebral artery occlusion), cell isolation and cultures, flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, single cell molecular sequencing, light and confocal microscopy and other biochemical and molecular techniques. Preferred candidates will have prior experience working with mice or other laboratory rodents in a research setting, as well as experience with carotid injections and manipulation procedures. 

Salary Range: Minimum $68,500 - Midpoint $85,500 - Maximum $102,500
Hourly Equivalent (40-hour work week): Minimum $32.93 - Midpoint $41.10 - Maximum $49.27
Work Location: Onsite. Houston, Tx.
Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 8:00AM - 5:00PM. Hours for this position may require some flexibility, including occasional weekends depending on business need. 

Why Us?
The Research Scientist role offers the opportunity to directly impact cutting-edge cancer research while working in a collaborative, mission-driven environment. At UT MD Anderson, Research Scientists are supported through access to advanced resources, professional development opportunities, and a culture that values scientific excellence, leadership growth, 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 Planning & Execution

• Plan, organize, coordinate, direct, and actively participate in scientific and endovascular research projects
• Establish research goals and objectives aligned with project and institutional priorities
• Design and initiate experiments independently using appropriate scientific methodologies
• Evaluate research data and revise techniques or approaches to address research challenges

Laboratory & Personnel Leadership

• Supervise and evaluate laboratory and research personnel to ensure achievement of project objectives
• Assign, review, and manage work performance for laboratory staff and technicians
• Recruit, select, train, and oversee laboratory personnel
• Ensure proper laboratory techniques, equipment usage, and compliance with safety procedures

Research Infrastructure & Innovation

• Oversee the design, development, and adaptation of research equipment
• Guide experimental process development to achieve desired scientific outcomes

Data Analysis & Scientific Communication

• Analyze and interpret research findings with scientific rigor
• Prepare, compile, and submit research reports for leadership review
• Present research results to leadership and professional audiences

Scholarly Dissemination

• Prepare scientific manuscripts, abstracts, and supporting documentation for publication

   

  Perform other duties as assigned in support of research objectives