Research Assistant I

The Immunology department at MD Anderson Cancer Center seeks to determine the fundamental cellular and molecular mechanisms of a wide range of processes by which the body recognizes and eliminates pathogens and use these findings to unleash the patient's own immune system against previously treatment-resistant cancers. Treating the immune system rather than the cancer itself, the therapeutics developed are applicable to many cancers.

The Research Assistant I provides technical assistance in carrying out various research projects in the research lab headed by Dr. Goswami in the Department of Immunology.

The ideal Research Assistant I candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in a basic science field and bring prior laboratory experience.

Minimum $18.99 - Midpoint $23.80 - Maximum $28.61
Work Location: Texas Medical Center (Onsite)

Why Us?
At UT MD Anderson, this role directly contributes to advancing breakthrough cancer research by supporting innovative immunology studies. This position offers a collaborative lab environment, opportunities to build technical expertise across various research methods, and exposure to impactful translational science, while supporting 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

Tissue Culture and Immunological Assays, and Lab Functions
• Maintain and establish cultures of cells
• Prepare sterile media and solutions
• Perform basic flow cytometry staining using pre-designed antibody panels
• Maintain and operate laboratory equipment such as PCR thermocycler and flow cytometer
• Coordinate schedule with staff to support protocols requiring weekend/holiday work
• Maintain accurate written records of experimental data and protocols
• Participate in lab meetings and contribute to discussions
• Follow lab safety precautions and proper handling of chemical and biohazard materials
• Foster positive working relationships with lab members and assist others as needed
• Communicate potential issues to supervisor in a timely manner

Mouse Work
• Work with live mice following proper handling procedures
• Maintain respectful and humane animal care practices
• Complete required training and certification for animal handling
• Assist with maintaining animal inventory and colony management
• Support breeding cage setup, ear tagging, and tail snipping
• Follow all IACUC protocols for animal care and experimentation
• Perform tumor measurements, injections, and monitor animal health metrics
• Assist with necropsy, dissections, and preparation of single-cell suspensions
• Conduct routine genotyping including PCR and/or flow cytometry

Molecular and Computational Biology
• Assist with RNA isolation, cDNA synthesis, PCR, and DNA gel purification
• Perform ligation, transformation, colony PCR screening, and plasmid purification
• Utilize basic knowledge of R and Python for data-related tasks
• Maintain clear and complete laboratory notebooks and records
• Compile, write, and submit project results to lab manager

Other Duties
• Support general lab operations and complete additional duties as assigned

EDUCATION
• Required: A Bachelor's Degree in Basic Science

WORK EXPERIENCE
• Required: None
• Preferred: Previous laboratory experience is a must.

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

• Requisition ID: 181365
• Employment Status: Full-Time
• Employee Status: Regular
• Work Week: Day/Evening, 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: Yes
• Referral Bonus Available?: Yes
• Relocation Assistance Available?: Yes

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