Senior Research Scientist Genitourinary Med Oncology - Research

University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

Houston (TX)

On-site

USD 79,000 - 118,000

Full time

4 days ago

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Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

PTO accrual

Tuition assistance

Pension plan

Job summary

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center seeks a Senior Research Scientist to lead translational studies in advanced prostate cancer, tumor microenvironment biology, immuno-oncology, and EV-based biomarker discovery. You will work with patient-derived specimens, molecular profiling, and preclinical models within GU Medical Oncology.

The ideal candidate has extensive translational oncology and cancer immunology experience, with the ability to mentor trainees and contribute to

Qualifications

Master's degree required; PhD or MD preferred.
Six years of experimental or scientific work experience required; with PhD or MD, three years experience required.
Experience in cancer immunology, immuno-oncology, prostate cancer biology, tumor microenvironment, and translational research highly desirable.
Experience with patient-derived biospecimens, preclinical cancer models, and multidisciplinary translational programs is a plus.

Responsibilities

Lead translational research in advanced prostate cancer, tumor microenvironment biology, immuno-oncology, therapeutic resistance, and EV-based biomarker discovery.
Investigate mechanisms of tumor progression, immune regulation, EV-mediated communication, and treatment resistance.
Generate clinically actionable insights to advance precision oncology and therapeutic development.
Translate laboratory discoveries into strategies that improve patient outcomes in genitourinary cancer.
Design and conduct experimental studies in cancer biology, immunology, and biomarker development.
Develop platforms for EV research, biomarker discovery, and tumor microenvironment studies.
Utilize patient-derived specimens and immune profiling technologies.
Develop immune profiling and monitoring approaches using translational platforms.

Skills

Translational oncology

Immunology

EV biomarker discovery

Patient-derived samples

Preclinical models

Education

Master's Degree in Natural sciences or related field

PhD or Medical Degree

Tools

Flow cytometry

Molecular profiling

Job description

UT MD Anderson seeks a Senior Research Scientist to contribute to groundbreaking translational research focused on advanced prostate cancer, tumor microenvironment biology, immuno-oncology, therapeutic resistance, and extracellular vesicle (EV)-based biomarker discovery. The Senior Research Scientist will lead laboratory and translational studies utilizing patient-derived specimens, molecular and immune profiling, EV technologies, and clinically relevant preclinical models. Within GU Medical Oncology, the Senior Research Scientist will play a key role in advancing scientific knowledge and translating discoveries into clinically actionable strategies.

UT MD Anderson is a leading institution focused on cancer care, research, education, and prevention. The Senior Research Scientist will generate clinically actionable insights that advance precision oncology and therapeutic development while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to improve outcomes for patients with genitourinary cancers.

The ideal candidate will have substantial experience in translational oncology and cancer immunology, including experience working within multidisciplinary research environments. Familiarity with MD Anderson research infrastructure, institutional processes, collaborative team science, and translational therapeutic development is highly desirable. Demonstrated ability to independently lead research initiatives, mentor trainees, and contribute to scientific publications and grant development is preferred.

Why Us?

At UT MD Anderson, this role offers the opportunity to advance transformative cancer research that directly informs patient care and therapeutic development. The position provides engagement with leading clinicians and investigators, access to innovative research platforms, and opportunities for professional growth through scientific collaboration, mentorship, and contributions to high-impact translational research programs.

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

Advance Scientific Discovery

Lead translational research in advanced prostate cancer, tumor microenvironment biology, immuno-oncology, therapeutic resistance, and EV-based biomarker discovery
Investigate mechanisms of tumor progression, immune regulation, EV-mediated communication, and treatment resistance
Generate clinically actionable insights that advance precision oncology and therapeutic development
Translate laboratory discoveries into strategies that improve patient outcomes in genitourinary cancer

Research Design & Experimental Studies

Design and conduct experimental studies in cancer biology, immunology, molecular profiling, and biomarker development
Develop and optimize platforms for EV research, biomarker discovery, and tumor microenvironment studies
Utilize patient-derived specimens, molecular profiling approaches, and immune profiling technologies in translational studies
Develop immune profiling and monitoring approaches using patient-derived biospecimens and translational research platforms

Preclinical & Therapeutic Development

Evaluate clinically relevant preclinical models to investigate treatment response and resistance
Assess therapeutic strategies and mechanisms associated with treatment outcomes
Support translational efforts that bridge laboratory findings with clinical research applications

Collaboration & Scientific Communication

Collaborate with investigators and clinicians to advance translational and clinical research initiatives
Participate in departmental and institutional research programs and collaborative activities
Prepare manuscripts, presentations, reports, and grant applications to disseminate research findings
Contribute scientific expertise to multidisciplinary research efforts and strategic initiatives

Leadership & Mentorship

Mentor trainees and research staff and provide scientific guidance
Foster development of research personnel through training and knowledge sharingSupport a collaborative and productive research environment
Perform other duties as assigned

EDUCATION:

Required: Master's Degree Natural sciences or related field.

Preferred: PhD Natural sciences or Medical Degree

EXPERIENCE:

Required: Six years experimental or scientific work experience, With PhD or Medical degree, three years experimental or scientific work experience.

Preferred: Experience in cancer immunology, immuno-oncology, advanced prostate cancer biology, tumor microenvironment research, therapeutic resistance, immune monitoring, biomarker development, and translational research. Experience with flow cytometry, patient-derived biospecimens, preclinical cancer models, molecular profiling technologies, and multidisciplinary translational research programs is highly desirable. Prior experience within a large academic cancer center is 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. http://www.mdanderson.org/about-us/legal-and-policy/legal-statements/eeo-affirmative-action.html

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