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Research Assistant I - GI Medical Oncology

Research Assistant I

The Research Assistant I supports the Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology department at MD Anderson Cancer Center by contributing to laboratory-based and translational research efforts focused on cancers of the gastrointestinal system. The Research Assistant I assists with informatics- and statistics-associated research projects and provides hands-on technical support in laboratory settings under the direct supervision of a principal investigator. Through collaboration with investigators, post-doctoral fellows, and graduate students, the Research Assistant I helps advance high-quality research that informs patient care and scientific discovery.

MD Anderson Cancer Center is a leading institution focused on cancer care, research, education, and prevention. In alignment with its mission to eliminate cancer in Texas, the nation, and the world, the Research Assistant I plays a vital role in supporting integrated programs that combine patient care, research, and education. The Research Assistant I position offers meaningful exposure to cutting-edge research within a highly collaborative academic medical environment.

IDEAL CANDIDATE STATEMENT
The ideal candidate for the Research Assistant I role has foundational laboratory research experience, hands-on exposure to processing blood and tissue specimens, in vitro cell culture, and basic molecular or cell biology assays, along with the ability to follow protocols, maintain accurate records, work with animal models, and contribute effectively to team-based research under direct supervision.

POSITION INFORMATION
This position has an annual salary range of $39,500 minimum, $49,500 midpoint, and $59,500 maximum

Why Us?
The Research Assistant I role offers the opportunity to directly support impactful gastrointestinal cancer research while gaining valuable laboratory experience in a world-renowned cancer center. This position supports professional development through exposure to advanced research techniques, close collaboration with scientific leaders, and meaningful contributions to MD Anderson's mission, while promoting a structured and supportive work environment.

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
Laboratory Research Support

Perform laboratory procedures leading to diagnosis or data assimilation with minimal supervision
Process blood and other fluid or tissue specimens according to established protocols
Conduct in vitro cell culture and assist with molecular biology assays such as Western blotting, RNA and DNA isolation, cDNA synthesis, and qRT-PCR
Perform cell biology assays including ELISA, cell proliferation or cell death assays, fluorescence cytometry, and clonogenic assays

Data Management and Documentation

Maintain accurate and detailed records of protocols and experimental data
Prepare records and label specimens for proper filing and tracking
Serve as curator of files, including maintaining and retrieving records
Compile, write, and submit work reports to the supervisor

Laboratory Operations and Maintenance

Prepare and maintain laboratory areas using proper cleanliness and aseptic techniques
Perform laboratory maintenance, including cleaning equipment and organizing repair procedures
Maintain laboratory stock, manage chemical inventory, and support safety records
Provide general laboratory support as needed

Technical and Research Assistance

Perform technical duties related to photography of specimens and distribution of materials for interpretation
Provide assistance to post-doctoral fellows and graduate students on research activities
Support informatics- and statistics-associated research projects under direct supervision

Animal Handling and Support

Perform duties related to animal handling, maintenance, and genotyping
Assist investigators during dissections or animal surgery as required

EDUCATION

Required: Bachelor's Degree Basic Science.

WORK EXPERIENCE

Required: None

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center offers excellent benefits, including medical, dental, paid time off, retirement, tuition benefits, educational opportunities, and individual and team recognition.

This position may be responsible for maintaining the security and integrity of critical infrastructure, as defined in Section 113.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code and therefore may require routine reviews and screening. The ability to satisfy and maintain all requirements necessary to ensure the continued security and integrity of such infrastructure is a condition of hire and continued employment.

It is the policy of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center to provide equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by institutional policy or by federal, state, or local laws unless such distinction is required by law.http://www.mdanderson.org/about-us/legal-and-policy/legal-statements/eeo-affirmative-action.html

Additional Information