Research Assistant II - Comparative Medicine

This position is located at The Michale E. Keeling Center for Comparative Medicine and Research in Bastrop, Texas.

MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center is to eliminate cancer in Texas, the nation, and the world through outstanding programs that integrate patient care, research and prevention, and through education for undergraduate and graduate students, trainees, professionals, employees and the public.

SUMMARY

The primary purpose of the Research Assistant II is to provide technical and coordination skills in carrying our various research projects in support of the SPF Baboon Research Resource (SPFBRR) program in the Department of Comparative Medicine.

JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES

Research Support
Perform technical laboratory duties or experimental tasks to supply information as part of a research laboratory. Perform duties in accordance with general and/or specific plans. Assists in the design of laboratory experiments, techniques, and protocols. Processes,
organizes and summarizes data, reporting experiment results using a variety of scientific, word processing, spreadsheet or statistical software applications or program platforms. Preparation of tissues, cell cultures, and blood samples. Process samples for analysis utilizing bench top assays such as western blotting, PCR and other common research techniques. Perform basic laboratory techniques such as molecular cloning, expression of antigens in bacteria or insect cell cultures, antigen preparation, etc. Assist in general laboratory operation, ensures the laboratory is prepared for experiments, performs related laboratory maintenance such as maintaining and cleaning equipment and assisting with monitoring and stocking supplies, preparation of stock solutions and other reagents. Collect and analyze data from experimental procedures and discuss results with the principal investigator. Document experimental results and maintain an organized laboratory notebook. Prepare materials for submission to granting agencies. May instruct other staff and students in basic laboratory techniques.

Expertise and Specialization
Apply basic background and experience in science to the application of laboratory techniques, using judgment, analysis and evaluation. Read literature and confer with supervisors regarding new procedures, and modify them according to the needs of the
project. Master complex skills and techniques used in the laboratory. Learn new skills or technology.

Laboratory Organization and Compliance

Coordinate procedures, assemble materials and contribute to the laboratory. Participate in ongoing learning and demonstrate application of it in carrying out assignments. Follow guidelines regarding order processing, handling of rush orders and special jobs. Interact with faculty and staff that access and support the SPF baboon program and other areas as necessary. Other duties as assigned.

Other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS

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

Preferred Education: Master's Level Degree

Certification: None

Preferred Certification: None

Experience: Two years of experience in scientific or experimental research work. No experience required with preferred degree.

Preferred Experience: None.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Frequency

Exposure to blood, bodily fluids, and/or tissue
Hazardous Chemicals and Materials
Exposure to Radiation
Exposure to animals
Deadlines
Noise
Operating Equipment
Wearing Protective Equipment
Electrical
Lighting
Sedentary Environment

Constant 67-100%
Constant 67-100%
Occasionally 11-33%
Seldom 3-10%

Frequent 34-66%
Constant 67-100%
Constant 67-100%
Seldom 3-10%
Seldom 3-10%
Frequent 34-66%

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Frequency

Weight

Arm/Hand Steadiness
Balancing
Bending/Stooping
Carrying
Depth Perception
Eye/Hand Coordination
Fine finger movement
Glare Sensitivity
Handling
Hearing Sensitivity
Keyboarding
Lifting
Neck Movements
Pushing/Pulling
Reaching
Sitting
Standing
Tactile Perception
Twisting
Visual Acuity
Visual Color Discrimination
Wrist Motion
Olfactory Perception
Night Vision

Frequent 34-66%
Constant 67-100%
Occasionally 11-13%
Frequent 34-66%
Frequent 34-66%
Constant 67-100%
Frequent 34-66%
Frequent 34-66%
Frequent 34-66%
Frequent 34-66%
Frequent 34-66%
Seldom 3-10%
Occasionally 11-13%
Seldom 3-10%
Frequent 34-66%
Frequent 34-66%
Frequent 34-66%
Frequent 34-66%
Seldom 3-10%
Constant 67-100%
Frequent 34-66%
Frequent 34-66%
Frequent 34-66%
Seldom 3-10%

20-50 lbs

20-50 lbs

50+ lbs

COGNITIVE DEMANDS

Analytical Ability
Appropriate Behavior
Attention to detail
Comprehending
Critical Thinking
Following Instructions
Giving and Receiving Constructive Feedback
Interpersonal Skills
Mathematical Skills/Reasoning
Memorizing/Remembering
Multitasking
Oral Communication
Organizing
Performing in a Leadership Role
Problem Solving
Reading Skills/Comprehension
Responding in emergency situations
Selective Attention
Working Alone
Written Communication
Creativity

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