Research Assistant Jobs in Houston, TX

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is a leading institution focused on cancer care, research, education, and prevention. The Clinical Cancer Prevention department establishes and conducts high-quality collaborative translational and clinical research programs focused on cancer risk assessment, risk reduction interventions, cancer risk and early detection markers, and cancer screening. The Research Assistant I supports these initiatives by providing technical laboratory assistance for research projects and contributing to the advancement of cancer prevention science.

UT MD Anderson is internationally recognized for excellence in patient care, research, education, and prevention. The Research Assistant I performs technical laboratory duties under the supervision of a Principal Investigator and supports laboratory operations that are essential to the successful execution of research studies. The Research Assistant I works closely with research teams to ensure laboratory activities are conducted according to established protocols and research plans, while the Research Assistant I contributes to a collaborative environment focused on scientific discovery and innovation.

The ideal Research Assistant I candidate will have a Bachelor's Degree in a Natural Science or Applied Science research-related discipline and laboratory experience in molecular and cancer biology techniques. Prior laboratory experience is a must. Preferred qualifications include proficiency in Western blotting, real-time PCR, molecular assays, experimental data analysis relevant to translational cancer research, mouse colony maintenance, tissue harvesting, biological sample collection, and laboratory compliance activities.

Location: Texas Medical Center; Schedule: Onsite
Hourly Salary Range (based on a 40-hour work week): Minimum $18.99 | Midpoint $23.80 | Maximum $28.61

Why Us?
UT MD Anderson offers the opportunity to support innovative translational and clinical cancer prevention research that directly contributes to the institution's mission to end cancer. This role provides hands-on experience with advanced laboratory techniques, collaboration with leading researchers, professional development opportunities, and a supportive environment that values both scientific excellence 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

Research Support

• Perform technical laboratory duties in support of translational and clinical cancer prevention research projects
• Assist with research studies investigating cancer risk assessment, risk reduction interventions, early detection markers, and cancer screening
• Carry out laboratory procedures according to general and/or specific research plans under the supervision of the Principal Investigator
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of experimental data, laboratory procedures, and research protocols
• Record, organize, and evaluate research data in accordance with methods requested by the Principal Investigator and senior laboratory members

Animal Research Activities

• Handle and maintain mouse colonies in accordance with approved research protocols
• Perform mouse colony maintenance, biopsies, genotyping, skin surgery, and related procedures
• Assist with tissue harvesting and biological sample collection, including blood and fecal specimens
• Monitor animal colonies and support research-related animal care activities

Molecular & Cellular Laboratory Techniques

• Perform human and mouse tissue culture techniques
• Conduct immunofluorescence staining and fluorescence microscopy experiments
• Perform fluorescence-activated cell sorting procedures
• Execute molecular biology techniques involving RNA, DNA, and protein isolation and analysis
• Perform Western blotting, PCR, real-time PCR, and other molecular assays
• Assist with experimental data analysis relevant to translational cancer research

Laboratory Operations & Compliance

• Support day-to-day laboratory operations and workflow activities
• Manage laboratory purchasing activities and maintain inventory levels
• Maintain laboratory equipment and coordinate routine upkeep and troubleshooting activities
• Ensure laboratory organization, cleanliness, and operational readiness
• Support laboratory compliance requirements, including Environmental Health and Safety standards and HIPAA requirements
• Follow institutional, departmental, and laboratory policies, procedures, and research protocols

Other Duties

• Collaborate with the Principal Investigator and senior laboratory members on assigned research projects
• Provide general laboratory support to facilitate successful research outcomes
• Perform other duties as assigned by the department or Principal Investigator

EDUCATION

• Required: Bachelor's Degree Natural Science or Applied Science in a research-related discipline

WORK EXPERIENCE

• Required: None
• Preferred: Must have prior laboratory experience. Experience in molecular and cancer biology techniques, including Western blotting, real-time PCR, molecular assays, and experimental data analysis relevant to translational cancer research. Experience with mouse colony maintenance, tissue harvesting, and biological sample collection, including blood and fecal specimens, 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.http://www.mdanderson.org/about-us/legal-and-policy/legal-statements/eeo-affirmative-action.html

Additional Information

• Requisition ID: 182627
• Employment Status: Full-Time
• Employee Status: Regular
• Work Week: 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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