Research Assistant I

UT MD Anderson; Houston (TX); Hybrid; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employer-paid medical coverage

Paid time off and holidays

Tuition Assistance

Pension and retirement plans

Job summary

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is seeking a Research Assistant I to support laboratory-based research, conduct experiments, collect data, and maintain lab operations in a dynamic research environment.

The role emphasizes hands-on techniques such as cell culture, Western blotting, PCR, protein expression, and data management, with onsite/hybrid work in Texas. Bachelor's degree in a basic science is required.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree with major course works in one of the basic sciences.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research experiments and laboratory tests according to protocols.
• Perform cell culture activities for ongoing projects.
• Carry out Western blot procedures and associated analyses.
• Process research samples per established protocols.
• Conduct protein expression and purification procedures.
• Perform PCR and molecular biology techniques.
• Assist with in vitro and preclinical animal model studies.
• Coordinate animal model activities with husbandry and veterinary staff.

Skills

Cell culture

Western blot

PCR

Protein expression

Tissue handling

Animal models

Data management

GraphPad Prism

PowerPoint

Excel

Word

Education

Bachelor's degree in basic sciences

Tools

PowerPoint

Excel

Word

GraphPad Prism

Job description

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is a leading institution dedicated to eliminating cancer through exceptional patient care, groundbreaking research, prevention programs, and education. The Research Assistant I role supports laboratory-based research efforts that contribute directly to advancing scientific discoveries and improving outcomes for patients. Within [Department information not provided], the Research Assistant I conducts experiments, collects and reports data, maintains laboratory operations, and supports ongoing research studies.

As a Research Assistant I, individuals play an important role in supporting faculty investigators and research teams through hands‑on laboratory work, data management, and scientific collaboration. The Research Assistant I works in a dynamic research environment that values technical expertise, analytical thinking, innovation, teamwork, and effective communication. At UT MD Anderson, the Research Assistant I contributes to mission‑driven research that impacts patients in Texas, across the nation, and throughout the world.

The ideal candidate will possess education and experience that supports laboratory research, experimental procedures, data collection, and scientific documentation. Experience with laboratory techniques such as cell culture, Western blotting, PCR applications, protein expression and purification, sample processing, tissue handling, animal models, and research data management is preferred. Knowledge of PowerPoint, Excel, Word, and GraphPad Prism along with strong technical, analytical, communication, and teamwork skills is highly valued.

Salary: $39,500 - $49,500 - $59,500

Why Us?

UT MD Anderson offers the opportunity to contribute to world‑class cancer research while supporting innovative scientific discoveries that advance patient care, research, prevention, and education. This position provides valuable laboratory experience, exposure to multidisciplinary research teams, opportunities for professional development, and the ability to make meaningful contributions to a mission‑focused institution.

• 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 Experiments & Laboratory Studies

• Conduct research experiments and laboratory tests associated with specific research protocols
• Perform cell culture activities in support of ongoing research projects
• Conduct Western blot procedures and related laboratory analyses
• Process research samples according to established protocols
• Perform protein expression and purification procedures
• Conduct PCR applications and related molecular biology techniques
• Assist with in vitro research studies
• Assist with preclinical animal model research studies
• Coordinate animal model activities with husbandry and veterinary staff regarding animal health
• Record experimental data using required documentation methods

Data Management & Research Support

• Assist faculty investigators with data file preparation
• Attend data review meetings as required by the department
• Handle, process, and store tissue samples
• Maintain tissue databases and associated records
• Ensure accurate data coding and entry
• Maintain continuous follow‑up records and research documentation

Laboratory Operations

• Organize and maintain the research laboratory
• Maintain research equipment and support laboratory functionality
• Assist in developing new laboratory procedures and techniques
• Improve existing methods relevant to research projects
• Maintain experimental records in laboratory books and computer files

Meetings & Collaboration

• Attend departmental monthly meetings as required
• Participate in research team meetings
• Collaborate with faculty investigators, laboratory leadership, and research staff
• Support laboratory activities as directed by the Principal Investigator and laboratory manager

Technical & Administrative Support

• Utilize PowerPoint, Excel, Word, and GraphPad Prism for research‑related activities
• Support data reporting and presentation activities
• Perform additional laboratory and research duties as assigned by the Principal Investigator and/or laboratory manager

Requirements

Education: Bachelor's degree with major course works in one of the basic sciences.

Experience: None

Preferred Experience: None

Onsite Presence: Required

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

• Requisition ID: 183943
• Employment Status: Full-Time
• Employee Status: Regular
• Work Week: Days
• Minimum Salary: US Dollar (USD) 39,500
• Midpoint Salary: US Dollar (USD) 49,500
• Maximum Salary : US Dollar (USD) 59,500
• FLSA: non‑exempt and eligible for overtime pay
• Fund Type: Soft
• Work Location: Hybrid Onsite/Remote
• Pivotal Position: No
• Referral Bonus Available?: No
• Relocation Assistance Available?: No