Research Assistant I - Translational Neuroscience

University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage from day one

PTO & holidays

Tuition assistance

Pension plan

Job summary

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX, is seeking a Research Assistant I to support translational neuroscience projects in Dr. Pan's Lab.

The role involves performing and coordinating lab experiments, collecting data, and reporting results to advance neuroscience-focused research initiatives. Ideal candidates have a solid foundation in laboratory research, knowledge of cell and molecular biology, and experience with mice or rodents.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a research-related discipline is required.
• Experience with cell and molecular biology techniques is beneficial.
• Familiarity with tissue processing and histology is advantageous.
• Experience with data collection, analysis, and scientific documentation is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform and coordinate experiments for research projects.
• Perform tissue collection procedures.
• Conduct tissue sectioning according to protocols.
• Perform fluorescence microscopy and image acquisition.
• Quantify experimental results.
• Perform molecular assays such as Western blots.
• Document procedures, observations, and results.
• Evaluate and analyze data; report findings weekly.

Skills

Laboratory techniques

Mouse/rodent handling

Data analysis

Fluorescence microscopy

Education

Bachelor's degree in Natural Science or Applied Science

Tools

Western blot

Job description

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is a leading institution focused on cancer care, research, education, and prevention. The Translational Neuroscience department is dedicated to advancing the understanding of neurological mechanisms and translating laboratory discoveries into meaningful approaches that improve patient outcomes. The Research Assistant I supports these efforts by performing and coordinating laboratory experiments that contribute to neuroscience-focused research initiatives in Dr. Pan's Lab.

Within UT MD Anderson, the Research Assistant I plays a key role in supporting scientific investigations through laboratory techniques, data collection, analysis, and reporting. The Research Assistant I collaborates with research teams to generate high-quality data and advance research objectives. The Research Assistant I contributes directly to the department's mission through hands-on laboratory work and scientific support activities.

The ideal candidate for this role will possess a strong foundation in laboratory research with demonstrated knowledge of cell, molecular biology techniques and experience working with mice or rodents. Candidates with experience in tissue processing, fluorescence microscopy, molecular assays, data analysis, and scientific documentation will be well-positioned to support the research objectives of the Translational Neuroscience department.

Minimum $39,500 ($18.99/hour) - Midpoint $49,500 ($23.80/hour) - Maximum $59,500 ($28.61/hour)

Why Us?

At UT MD Anderson, the Research Assistant I contributes to groundbreaking neuroscience research that supports the institution's mission to eliminate cancer and improve patient care. This role offers the opportunity to build advanced laboratory and research skills, collaborate with multidisciplinary scientific teams, and contribute to meaningful discoveries while benefiting from a supportive environment that promotes professional 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

Laboratory Research Support

• Perform and coordinate experiments for research projects
• Perform tissue collection procedures in support of laboratory studies
• Conduct tissue sectioning activities according to established protocols
• Perform fluorescence microscopy and image acquisition procedures
• Quantify experimental results and laboratory findings

Cell & Molecular Biology Activities

• Perform molecular assays such as Western blots
• Apply cell and molecular biology techniques to support departmental research objectives

Data Collection, Analysis & Reporting

• Document experimental procedures, observations, and results
• Evaluate and analyze data obtained from research studies
• Report research findings on a weekly basis.

Additional Responsibilities

• Perform other duties as assigned

EDUCATION

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

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.

Additional Information

• 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: Onsite
• Pivotal Position: No
• Referral Bonus Available?: No
• Relocation Assistance Available?: No