Senior Research Assistant

University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

Houston (TX)

On-site

USD 34,109 - 51,329

Full time

14 days+

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Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage from day one

Paid time off

Tuition assistance

Pension plan

Job summary

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is seeking a Senior Research Assistant in Systems Biology to test new commercial technologies for single-cell and spatial genomics and to help roll out new assays as a core service. This role includes training core personnel, creating SOPs, and defining standardized QC benchmarks, while performing spatial genomic experiments and assisting in assay rollout.

The ideal candidate has molecular biology laboratory experience with tissue processing,

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in natural sciences or related field required.
Master's degree in basic sciences and MD preferred.
Three years of scientific or experimental research experience; or one year with preferred degree.
Experience in molecular biology lab with tissue processing, imaging, or NGS preferred.
Experience with histopathology, genomics, transcriptomics, or high-resolution imaging preferred.

Responsibilities

Perform spatial genomics experiments including Visium HD, Xenium, and related assays.
Provide core laboratory services requested by users.
Conduct PCR, qPCR, DNA isolation, RNA isolation, and quality control procedures.
Perform tissue sectioning and tissue staining using H&E methodologies.
Prepare libraries for next-generation sequencing workflows.
Prepare slides for spatial transcriptomics assays.
Interface with core service and data analysis teams regarding protocols, experimental challenges, and sample quality control requirements.

Skills

Spatial genomics

Histopathology

Imaging

NGS methods

Education

Bachelor's degree in Natural Sciences

Master's degree in Basic Sciences

Tools

Visium HD

Xenium

qPCR

H&E staining

Job description

Systems Biology is an interdisciplinary department that is pushing the boundaries of cancer research by integrating technology development, bioengineering, data science, and systems biology.

The primary purpose of this Senior Research Assistant position is to test new commercial technologies for single cell and spatial genomics assays for release as a core service as well as assisting in the roll out of new assays. This includes training of other core personnel in the assays, creating SOP, defining standardize QC and benchmarking the assay. The secondary purpose is performing spatial genomics experiments for customers and maintaining the cores laboratory equipment.

The Senior Research Assistant applies technical expertise in spatial genomics, histopathology, and mammalian sample processing to support the development, evaluation, and implementation of advanced molecular assays. This primarily wet-laboratory role is responsible for performing spatial genomic experiments, benchmarking commercial assays across various sample types and quality levels, and transitioning validated in-house laboratory assays into core services. The position also supports assay implementation, sample handling workflows, and efficient processing of customer samples, with some responsibilities involving data transfer and management.

The ideal Senior Research Assistant has demonstrated experience working in a molecular biology research laboratory with expertise in tissue processing, imaging, and/or next-generation sequencing (NGS) methodologies. Experience with histopathology, genomics, transcriptomics, or high-resolution imaging is highly preferred.

Minimum $24.76/hour - Midpoint $31.01/hour - Maximum $37.26/hour

Work Schedule: Onsite

Why Us?

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

Core Facility Duties

Perform spatial genomics experiments including Visium HD, Xenium, and related assays
Provide core laboratory services requested by users
Conduct PCR, qPCR, DNA isolation, RNA isolation, and quality control procedures
Perform tissue sectioning and tissue staining using H&E methodologies
Prepare libraries for next-generation sequencing workflows
Prepare slides for spatial transcriptomics assays
Interface with core service and data analysis teams regarding protocols, experimental challenges, and sample quality control requirements

Assay Development & Benchmarking

Test and evaluate new commercial technologies for single-cell and spatial genomics applications
Benchmark commercial assays across samples of varying quality and tissue types
Assess potential assays for release as core services
Assist with implementation and rollout of new assays
Define standardized quality control metrics and benchmarking procedures
Transition in-house laboratory assays into core service offerings

Record Keeping & Data Management

Maintain records of core samples, received data, generated data, and storage locations
Record and evaluate experimental data according to established methods
Maintain clear and systematic benchmarking records for assays and equipment
Support data transfer and data management activities associated with core operations
Generate standard operating procedures prior to protocol release
Train laboratory personnel on new protocols and workflows

Laboratory Operations & Equipment

Assist with overall organization and operation of the core facility
Maintain laboratory equipment used in genomics and spatial biology workflows
Construct, assemble, and operate laboratory apparatus and equipment
Prepare reports supporting core operations as needed
Maintain laboratory safety standards and practices
Perform other duties as assigned

EDUCATION

Required: Bachelor's Degree in Natural Sciences or a related field
Preferred: A Master's Degree in Basic Sciences and a Medical Degree

WORK EXPERIENCE

Required: Three years of scientific or experimental research work experience or One year of required experience with a preferred degree
Preferred: Must have prior experience working in a molecular biology research laboratory with expertise in tissue processing, imaging, and/or next-generation sequencing (NGS) methodologies. Experience with histopathology, genomics, transcriptomics, or high-resolution imaging is highly preferred.

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