Research Assistant II

Research Assistant II

The Department of Surgical Oncology is the largest department in the Division of Surgery, comprised of a group of nationally- and internationally-recognized Faculty who are recognized experts in the treatment of a wide variety of malignant, potentially malignant, and benign solid tumors. We provide assessment, treatment planning and surgical services in the specialty disciplines of Breast, Endocrine, Gastrointestinal (including Liver, Pancreas and Colorectal), Melanoma and Skin, Orthopaedics, Pediatric Surgery, and Sarcoma.

SUMMARY

Provides technical assistance in carrying out various research projects in the laboratory.

JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES

Conducts research experiments and projects:

· Conducts all cell and tissue based assays such as immunohistochemical assays (biological specimen collection, processing for analysis and preservation), in vitro cell proliferation/ cell death assays, molecular biology techniques, flow cytometry, microscopy and molecular profiling experiments.

· Experienced in tissue culture techniques (derivation, maintenance and cryopreservation of human cell lines).

· Prepares buffers, dyes and common lab reagents.

· Regularly communicates with the clinical research team regarding patient accrual for sample acquisition.

· Works independently and as a member of the team to ensure that samples are processed and related experiments are conducted in a timely and consistent manner.

Demonstrates good lab ethics:

· Maintains a clean and neat work area in laboratory to ensure the most safe and efficient functioning of the lab and a pleasant work environment.

· Maintains assertiveness and flexibility in approaching new techniques and responsibilities, utilizing good work habits and time management.

· Must read and retain knowledge of instructions for all machines and equipment utilized in laboratory.

· At all times, must adhere to the institutional and departmental guidelines for research ethics.

· Assist with overall monitoring of lab inventory: quantities and types of supplies needed in the lab on a regular basis.

· Maintains a level of professional expertise and credibility through attendance at both institutional and outside continuing education programs.

· Demonstrates excellent oral and written communication skills when contacting other co-workers, institutions and agencies.

Data acquisition and analysis:

· Must maintain up-to-date, thorough, clear, accurate and well-organized records of laboratory data (experimental procedures and results), both written and electronic, accessible by the supervisor at all times.

· Independently enters, organizes, and analyzes data including updating tissue/blood databases and performing queries and providing inventory/stock information.

· Meets with the Principal Investigator on a weekly basis to review data entry and interpret data and results.

· Reads and comprehends research literature and confers with superiors regarding new procedures and modifies them according to the needs of the projects.

· Prepare and/or assist in getting the experimental results ready for publications (manuscript/abstracts) as needed. In addition, assist and/or prepare for publications in peer review scientific journals.

· Must be able to use computer analysis to provide slides and graphs of data. Assists with statistical analysis of research studies.

Other duties as assigned

Education Required: Bachelor's degree with major course works in one of the basic sciences.

Education Preferred: Master's Level Degree

Experience Required: No experience required with preferred degree.

Experience Preferred: Two years or more of laboratory bench experience in molecular biology.

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