Research Assistant II

UT MD Anderson; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employer‑paid medical coverage

PTO and holidays

Tuition assistance

Retirement plans

Job summary

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center seeks a Research Assistant II in the Genetics department to support innovative RNA sequencing studies and multidisciplinary cancer research efforts. The role involves hands-on molecular biology, cellular biology, and bioinformatics tasks in a state‑of‑the‑art facility.

Ideal candidates hold a Bachelor's in Basic Science with at least one year of research experience; a Master’s or Medical degree is preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Basic Science required.
• One year of scientific or experimental research experience required.
• Master's or Medical degree preferred.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and conduct experiments in molecular/cellular/protein biology and related basic science disciplines.
• Deliver experimental results accurately and timely.
• Learn and proficiently apply new laboratory techniques.
• Read scientific literature and adapt protocols to project needs.
• Maintain detailed records of methods and results.
• Analyze research data using appropriate software and methodologies.
• Assist with scientific writing for publications and grants.
• Present research findings at meetings and seminars.
• Handle patient specimens per laboratory procedures.
• Prepare RNA sequencing and functional assay samples.
• Maintain inventory of lab materials and cell lines.
• Coordinate safety inspections and ensure compliance.
• Interact with vendors and facilities for materials and service.
• Train team members on procedures and best practices.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Skills

Molecular biology

Cellular biology

Protein biology

Sequencing technologies

Cancer research

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Basic Science

Master's Degree in Basic Science

Medical Degree

Tools

RNA sequencing

Job description

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is a world-renowned institution dedicated to advancing cancer care, research, education, and prevention. Within its Genetics department, located in the George and Cynthia Mitchell Basic Sciences Research Building in the Texas Medical Center, researchers focus on advancing knowledge of the molecular genetic mechanisms that regulate normal and abnormal cellular processes. The department investigates both genetic and non‑genetic drivers of cancer, with a particular emphasis on understanding how RNA aberrations contribute to cancer development and progression.

The Research Assistant II will support innovative laboratory studies which seeks to uncover RNA errors through advanced sequencing technologies and multidisciplinary research approaches. The Research Assistant II will contribute to projects involving molecular biology, cellular biology, protein biology, biochemistry, and functional genomics. This Research Assistant II role offers the opportunity to participate in cutting‑edge cancer research that may lead to new diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic strategies.

The ideal candidate will possess a Bachelors in Basic Science with one year Scientific or experimental research work experience. Master's Degree in Basic Science or a Medical Degree his preferred. Be able demonstrate an interest in molecular biology, cellular biology, protein biology, sequencing technologies, and cancer research. Candidates who bring scientific research experience, strong laboratory skills, and a willingness to learn new techniques will be well suited for this opportunity.

Minimum $21.63/hour - Midpoint $27.16/hour - Maximum $32.69/hour

Work Location: Texas Medical Center

Typical Work Schedule: Onsite

Why Us?

UT MD Anderson offers the opportunity to contribute directly to groundbreaking cancer research that advances understanding of RNA abnormalities and their role in disease development. This position provides exposure to innovative laboratory techniques, collaborative scientific environments, professional development opportunities, and meaningful work that supports discoveries with the potential to improve patient outcomes worldwide.

• 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

• Coordinate and conduct experiments independently in molecular biology, cellular biology, protein biology, and related basic science disciplines.
• Deliver experimental results and research data accurately and in a timely manner.
• Learn and become proficient in new laboratory techniques required for ongoing and future research projects.
• Read scientific literature, confer with supervisors regarding new procedures, and adapt protocols to project needs.
• Follow established laboratory protocols and maintain accurate, detailed records of experimental methods and results.
• Process, analyze, and evaluate research data using appropriate methodologies and software tools.
• Generate assay results and assist with scientific writing for publications and grant applications.
• Present research findings at laboratory meetings, collaborator meetings, and local seminars.
• Request, receive, and handle patient specimens in accordance with laboratory procedures.
• Process biological samples for RNA sequencing and functional assays.
• Maintain inventory of laboratory materials, cell lines, and patient specimens.
• Coordinate laboratory safety inspections and support compliance with safety requirements.
• Work with vendors and facilities personnel regarding laboratory materials, equipment service, and repairs.
• Assist with training laboratory team members and trainees on procedures and best practices.
• Perform additional duties and research support activities as assigned.

EDUCATION

• Required: Bachelor's Degree in Basic Science
• Preferred: A Master's Degree in Basic Science and a Medical Degree

Work Experience

• Required: One year of scientific or experimental research work experience

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

• Minimum Salary: US Dollar (USD) 45,000
• Midpoint Salary: US Dollar (USD) 56,500
• Maximum Salary : US Dollar (USD) 68,000