Laboratory Research Assistant

The START Center for Cancer Research (“START”) is the world’s largest early phase site network, fully dedicated to oncology clinical research. Throughout our history, START has provided hope to cancer patients in global community practices by offering access to cutting edge trials throughout the US and Europe. Today, with over 1,300 studies completed, and with research facilities in the United States and in Spain, Portugal, and Ireland, START’s mission is to accelerate the development of new anticancer drugs that will improve the quality of life and survival for patients with cancer and lead to its eventual cure. To date, over 43 therapies conducted at START locations have obtained FDA/EMA approval. Incredibly, while Academic Medical Centers (AMCs) conduct 80% of cancer trials, such trials reach only 20% of the patient population – leaving the majority of patients who are treated in community practices and hospitals without access to a clinical trial when their care journey calls for one. START serves the many – by bringing cancer trials to physicians and their patients in community hospitals and practices when hope is needed most.

START represents the world’s largest roster of Principal Investigators (PIs) across its eight clinical trial sites. Committed to accelerating passage from trials to treatments, START delivers hope to patients, families, and physicians around the world. As an example, in San Antonio, where START was founded, START treated the first patient ever with Keytruda – the most effective cancer drug in medical history.

We are hiring a motivated Laboratory Research Assistant who will supports pharmacy operations for preclinical research. Responsibilities include preparation and handling of study agents, maintaining detailed records, and ensuring compliance with laboratory and sponsor protocols. The role is essential in facilitating high-quality scientific research and maintaining inventory and regulatory documentation for START’s preclinical studies.

Essential Responsibilities

• Complete pharmacy-related aspects of preclinical studies including but not limited to drug and vehicle receipt, preparation, proper storage, labeling, recording of lot numbers, expirations dates and drug disposal.
• Responsible for receiving, unpacking, recording and storing all pharmacy and related supplies.
• Responsible for advanced preparation for internal and external auditing and reporting of schedules. Prepare for investigator site visits and sponsor audits, ensuring all pharmacy documentation is inspection ready.
• Maintains accurate records and documentation in accordance with internal and external standards.
• Conduct complex laboratory formulations related to pharmaceutical sciences.
• Conduct daily operations of the pharmacy lab, ensuring compliance with all internal SOPs, safety and regulatory guidelines.

Education & Experience

• Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree in Natural Science or related field required. Relevant lab experience may be acceptable in lieu of education.
• Minimum years of relevant experience: One (1) to two (2) years in a research laboratory setting required.
• Strong record-keeping and data entry accuracy
• Ability to follow detailed procedures and adapt to changing study needs
• Competency in Microsoft Office Suite and laboratory software systems

Preferred Education And Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree
• 2 years of experience in a research laboratory setting
• Experience in pharmaceutical research preferred.

Physical And Travel Requirements

• Sitting: Must be able to sit for extended periods of time.
• Standing: Must be able to stand for extended periods of time.
• Bending: Must be able to reach overhead, at shoulder level, or bend to perform tasks.
• Lifting: Must be able to lift 50 pounds.
• Exposure: Regular exposure to laboratory environments, including handling of chemical and biological substances in accordance with safety protocols; potential exposure to laboratory animals, animal dander, and biohazardous materials

Best-in-Class Benefits And Perks

We value our employees’ time and efforts. Our commitment to your success is enhanced by a competitive compensation, depending on experience, and an extensive benefits package including:

• Comprehensive health coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance provided
• Robust retirement planning: 401(k) plan available with employer matching
• Financial security: Life and disability insurance for added protection
• Flexible financial options: Health savings and flexible spending accounts offered
• Well-being and work-life balance: Paid time off, flexible schedule, and remote work choices provided
• Plus, we work to maintain the best environment for our employees, where people can learn and grow with the company. We strive to provide a collaborative, creative environment where everyone feels encouraged to contribute to our processes, decisions, planning, and culture.

More About The START Center For Cancer Research

Deeply rooted in community oncology centers globally, The START Center for Cancer Research provides access to specialized preclinical and early-phase clinical trials of novel anti-cancer agents. START clinical trial sites have conducted more than a thousand early-phase clinical trials, including for 43 therapies that were approved by the FDA. START represents the world’s largest roster of Principal Investigators (PIs) across its eight clinical trial sites. Committed to accelerating passage from trials to treatments, START delivers hope to patients, families, and physicians around the world. Learn more at STARTresearch.com.

Ready to be part of a team changing the future of cancer treatment?

Join us in our mission to conquer cancer, one clinical trial at a time. Your expertise and dedication can help us bring hope and healing to patients worldwide. Please submit your application online.

We are an equal opportunity employer that welcomes and encourages diversity in the workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.