Research Assistant I

University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

Houston (TX)

On-site

USD 40,000 - 60,000

Full time

3 days ago

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Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage from day one

PTO and holidays

Tuition assistance

Pension plan

Job summary

University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is seeking a Research Assistant I in the McAllister Lab to develop and maintain programs and applications for cancer research. This onsite role involves genotyping, DNA extraction, PCR, and protein assays, with a focus on mouse models and human sample handling.

Responsibilities include lab operations, collaboration with investigators, presentations, and contributing to abstracts and posters.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in natural or applied science required.
Preferred: experience with PCR, gel electrophoresis, primer design, and DNA extraction.

Responsibilities

Perform mouse tail clipping for genotyping studies.
Conduct DNA extraction for genotyping analysis.
Perform PCR studies to support research projects.
Conduct gel electrophoresis and analyze results.
Perform Immunohistochemistry assays and quantification.
Perform Immunofluorescence assays and quantification.
Conduct Western blot assays and quantification.
Process human samples according to laboratory protocols.
Ensure proper storage and handling of human samples.
Maintain mouse colonies and monitor colony needs.
Ensure proper husbandry and animal care practices.
Prepare stock solutions and calibrate laboratory instruments.
Troubleshoot equipment and maintain laboratory apparatus.
Maintain safety protocols and inspection readiness.
Communicate findings with staff and investigators; present results.
Contribute to abstracts, publications, and posters.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Natural Science or Applied Science in a research-related discipline

Tools

PCR

DNA extraction

Gel electrophoresis

Immunohistochemistry

Immunofluorescence

Western blot

Job description

Genetics is a basic science department located in the George and Cynthia Mitchell Basic Sciences Research Building at the world-renowned UT MD Anderson in the heart of the Texas Medical Center. The focus is on advancing knowledge of the molecular genetic mechanisms that regulate normal and abnormal cellular processes.

The Research Assistant I to help achieve our goal in the McAllister Lab. This position impacts cancer research projects by developing/maintaining programs and applications tailored to meet research objectives and makes them available to the wider cancer research community.

Minimum $18.99/hour - Midpoint $23.80/hour - Maximum $28.61/hour

Work Location: Texas Medical Center (Onsite)

Schedule: Onsite

Why Us?

This position offers the opportunity to contribute directly to groundbreaking cancer research while working alongside leading scientists and researchers at UT MD Anderson. The role provides valuable laboratory experience, exposure to advanced research methodologies, opportunities for professional growth, and the ability to support discoveries that advance cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

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 & Analysis

Perform mouse tail clipping for genotyping studies.
Conduct DNA extraction for genotyping analysis.
Perform PCR studies to support research projects.
Conduct gel electrophoresis and analyze experimental results.
Perform Immunohistochemistry assays and quantification.
Perform Immunofluorescence assays and quantification.
Conduct Western blot assays and quantification.
Process human samples according to laboratory protocols.
Ensure proper storage and handling of human samples.

Animal Colony Management

Maintain mouse colonies according to established protocols.
Set up breeding pairs and monitor colony needs.
Ensure proper husbandry and animal care practices.

Laboratory Operations & Equipment

Prepare stock solutions for general laboratory use.
Calibrate laboratory instruments on a regular basis.
Troubleshoot laboratory equipment and instrumentation issues.
Maintain laboratory apparatus and equipment.
Perform laboratory maintenance activities, including -20°C freezer defrosts.
Ensure laboratory operations remain compliant with institutional standards.
Maintain laboratory safety protocols and inspection readiness.

Collaboration & Scientific Communication

Communicate and collaborate with staff, faculty, and investigators on research projects within and outside of UT MD Anderson.
Discuss research findings with research collaborators and laboratory teams.
Participate in verbal presentations of research results.
Contribute to abstracts, publications, and scientific posters.

Additional Duties

Perform other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION

Required: Bachelor's Degree in Natural Science or Applied Science in a research-related discipline

WORK EXPERIENCE

Required: None
Preferred: Prior experience with PCR, gel electrophoresis, primer design, and DNA extraction

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