Research Intern Jobs in Texas

INTRODUCTION

The Research Internship position provides hands-on experience in translational cancer research, with a focus on prostate cancer bone metastasis (bmPCa). The intern will contribute to cutting-edge studies centered on liquid biopsies and extracellular vesicles (EVs), including their isolation, molecular characterization, and functional evaluation in preclinical models and clinical samples. This role offers exposure to advanced transcriptomic and proteomic techniques, as well as in vivo modeling, within a collaborative and highly innovative research environment.

All duties and responsibilities are carried out in compliance with institutional policies, ethical research standards, and applicable federal and state regulations.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

1. Culturing tumor cell lines and handling patient-derived xenograft (PDX) samples
2. Isolating extracellular vesicles using a variety of established methods
3. Performing RNA and protein extraction for downstream molecular profiling (RNA-seq, proteomics)
4. Conducting in vivo experiments, including small animal handling, treatment, and monitoring
5. Operating specialized instrumentation (e.g., flow cytometry, Nanosight, IVIS, MRI) for EV analysis and tumor growth measurements
6. Supporting data analysis and visualization using tools such as ImageJ and/or MATLAB
7. Maintaining accurate experimental records and contributing to data interpretation
8. Collaborating effectively with team members and communicating findings clearly
9. Computer literacy:
10. Needs to be capable of generating electronic versions of data and images for analysis and presentation. Experience in cloud-based image and data management is preferred.
11. Laboratory Inventory management:
12. Must be able to manage inventories and order material for the laboratory in a timely fashion. Must work with department members and collaborators to ensure the consistent flow of information and quality control.

MARGINAL FUNCTIONS

Conduct Library Work:
- Reads and understands articles related to ongoing research.

Shipments:
- Must be able to assemble instruments, samples, reagents, dry or wet ice, data and packaging materials.
- Draft a cover letter, accurately and legibly fill out shipping labels.
- Carry package to receiving area on ground floor prior to carrier pickup.
- Keep accurate and legible logs of outgoing and incoming packages.
- For incoming packages: ascertain contents, store at appropriate location, file information sheets and notify principal investigator.
- Update pertinent inventory logs and patient tissue logs in compliance with regulatory requirements.

Performs related work as required.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor's degree in the Biomedical field, Biology or a related field.

ADDITIONAL APPLICATION INFORMATION

Preferred Experience: Experience in extracellular vesicle methodology and cancer biology. Familiarity with prostate cancer biology or bone metastasis.

POSITION INFORMATION

Offsite work arrangements are subject to approval and may be modified or revoked at any time based on business needs, performance considerations, or regulatory requirements.

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.