Research Assistant II - Leukemia

Research Assistant II - Leukemia

The Research Assistant II for Leukemia supports scientific investigation within the [Department information not provided], contributing directly to research that advances understanding and treatment of leukemia. The Research Assistant II for Leukemia plays an essential role in maintaining rodent colonies, executing molecular assays, and ensuring high-quality laboratory operations across in vivo and molecular research teams. As part of this environment, the Research Assistant II for Leukemia collaborates closely with investigators and laboratory personnel to uphold rigorous research standards.

MD Anderson Cancer Center is a leading institution focused on cancer care, research, education, and prevention. This role helps sustain high-quality research initiatives that impact cancer treatment and scientific discovery.

The ideal candidate has experience with rodent handling, in vivo dosing techniques, molecular biology procedures, and laboratory equipment maintenance, supported by relevant scientific education and familiarity with regulated laboratory environments.

Why Us?
This position offers the opportunity to directly support groundbreaking leukemia research while developing advanced technical skills in both animal and molecular laboratory methods. Team members benefit from strong institutional support, career development opportunities, and programs designed to promote work-life balance as they contribute to MD Anderson's mission to end cancer.
• 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.

Salary Range

Minimum Salary $45,000 | Midpoint Salary $56,500 | Salary Midpoint 56,500

Responsibilities
Animal Research Support
• Manage rodent breeding colonies by mating breeders, checking pregnancy, recording litters, monitoring pup development, identifying pups for genotyping, and weaning
• Observe and document health conditions and clinical signs in animals
• Dose and inject animals using PO, IV, IP, IM, and SC routes
• Collect tissues for hematology and genotyping assays
• Support in vivo experiments in accordance with project protocols
• Report animal status and issues twice weekly
• Monitor inventories of consumable supplies to ensure continuity of animal laboratory procedures
• Maintain open communication with supervisors, project investigators, and personnel across animal and biological laboratories
• Create and manage animal laboratory research folders, files, and documentation
• Enter data into spreadsheets or databases, maintain animal inventories, and generate reports
• Recommend replacement or purchase of new equipment when needed

Molecular Techniques
• Isolate, purify, and analyze RNA, DNA, and protein
• Perform hybridization, gel electrophoresis, autoradiography, and ECL staining
• Conduct PCR reactions, quantitative RT-PCR assays, DNA sequencing, and assays for signal-transducing enzymes

Laboratory Equipment & Maintenance
• Perform routine maintenance of ultra-low freezers, liquid nitrogen systems, CO₂ levels, and water systems
• Maintain equipment including high-speed centrifuges, pH meters, and microfuges
• Operate laboratory equipment, follow operation manuals, and troubleshoot basic issues
• Lift and transport items up to 20-25 pounds using a roller cart as needed
• Follow all institutional safety policies including Universal Precautions and OSHA standards
• Use protective equipment such as gloves, eye protection, face masks, gowns, or lab coats as required
• Work within fume hoods or biological safety cabinets for designated procedures

EDUCATION

• Required: Bachelor's Degree Basic Science.
• Preferred: Master's Degree Basic Science.
• Preferred: Medical Degree

WORK EXPERIENCE

• Required: One year Scientific or experimental research work experience / No experience required with preferred degree.
  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: 178831
• Employment Status: Full-Time
• Employee Status: Regular
• Work Week: Days, Weekends
• Minimum Salary: US Dollar (USD) 45,000
• Midpoint Salary: US Dollar (USD) 56,500
• Maximum Salary : US Dollar (USD) 68,000
• FLSA: exempt and not eligible for overtime pay
• Fund Type: Soft
• Work Location: Onsite
• Pivotal Position: Yes
• Referral Bonus Available?: No
• Relocation Assistance Available?: Yes

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