Research Investigator -Investigational Cancer Therapeutics

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.

The primary purpose of the Research Investigator position is to carry out in an independent manner, yet under the direction of a professional staff member, major research activities of a scientific and technical nature for which the incumbent is particularly qualified in terms of extensive training and experience.

Responsible for the direction, planning, and participation in a laboratory research program.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. To assume responsibility for general laboratory maintenance
- Maintain procedures and protocols that ensure the quality and integrity of procedures performed
- Stores and maintain an electronic log of specific cell lines and plasmids in liquid nitrogen freezer and/or ultra cold freezers.
- Monitor workflow as it pertains to the need for supplies, equipment maintenance, and preparing stock solutions. Keep ample stock of supplies on hand. Follow-up on orders and ensure organization and accessibility of all reagents Prepare stock solutions.
- Maintain an excellent working knowledge of all various basic laboratory equipment and apparatus and be able to read equipment operation manuals and procedure manuals. Monitors vital functions (temperature, CO2 levels, water levels, etc.) of major laboratory equipment with the aid of other laboratory personnel. Know the procedure for obtaining repair or maintenance for lab equipment
- Perform mycoplasma screening for cell cultures
- Oversee radiation safety. Prepare quarterly radiation safety reports. Assist in submission of biosafety reports. Accurately records the use and disposal of all hazardous materials.

-Using a computer keyboard and software, writes protocols for the laboratory manual to be used by laboratory personnel or students.

2. To plan, organize, and execute the details of experiments.
- Plan experiments under the general guidance of the supervisor
- Perform experiments as outlined by the supervisor to include preparation of reagents, execution of experiments, troubleshooting when experimental problems occur. Checks and provides a confidence level for the accuracy and reliability of the result and calculations.
- Prepares graphs, charts, and labeling of data from the experimental results. Presents and discusses all experimental data and experimental procedures used to obtain the data with the supervisor.
- Perform procedures involving tissue culture, growth assays, isolation and quantitation of DNA, RNA and protein, and western blotting, northern blotting, Southern blotting, immunofluorescence, tissue lysate arrays. Cloning of specific genes and structural, functional characterization of the genes. These procedures require the ability of construction of genomic or cDNA libraries, screening and identification of genomic of cDNA clones, computer analyses of sequences, gene detection and cloning with PCR (polymerase chained reaction). Extraction of protein from tumor cells utilizing a tissue homogenizer, column chromatography, ultracentrifugation, and high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC).

-Perform the experiments in a professional and conscientious manner
- Collect and process surgical and biopsy specimens from the image-guided biopsies, frozen section suite, or pathology laboratory. Maintain an organized patient and sample database.
- Perform animal work and experiments according to established protocols and guidelines.
- Maintain assertiveness and flexibility in approaching new techniques and responsibilities, utilizing good work habits and time management.
- Maintain alertness and careful attention to avoid injury to self and others due to chemicals and hazardous materials in the laboratory.

-Perform intricate, highly technical laboratory experiments utilizing analytical and problem-solving skills as well as manual dexterity. Must be capable of understanding and interpreting complex sets of data, as well as performing computational as well as statistical equations.

3. To independently maintain experimental records and to prepare written reports to supervisor.
- Maintain an up-to-date, organized, and legible laboratory journal that records all experiments in detail.
- Independently organize and analyze data. Communicate closely with the P.I. to design and interpret experimental results
- Prepare materials for oral and written communication including manuscripts, abstracts, slides posters and grants.

-Present research findings at local, regional and national scientific meetings by speaking in a clear, pleasant understandable and knowledgeable manner.

-Assist in obtaining institutional approval for laboratory protocols and animal protocols.

4. To work closely with other staff members.
- Assist the organization of the lab
- Maintain good working relationship with other lab members.
- Instruct new members of the lab.
- Explain to staff members the scientific protocols currently being employed in the laboratory.

-Have direct involvement and responsibility for all on-going research projects in the assigned research laboratory.

Working Conditions

This position requires:

Working in Office Environment

___X___ No

______ Yes

Working in Patient Care Unit (e.g. Nursing unit; outpatient clinic)

____X__ No

______ Yes

Exposure to human/animal blood, body fluids, or tissues

______ No

___X___ Yes

Exposure to harmful chemicals

______ No

___X___ Yes

Exposure to radiation

______ No

___X___ Yes

Exposure to animals

______ No

__ X____ Yes

Physical Demands

Indicate the time required to do each of the following physical demands:

Time Spent

Never

0%

Occasionally

1-33%

Frequently

34-66%

Continuously

67-100%

Standing

X

Walking

X

Sitting

X

Reaching

X

Lifting/Carrying

Up to 10 lbs.

X

10lbs to 50 lbs.

X

More than 50 lbs.

X

Pushing/Pulling

Up to 10 lbs.

X

10lbs to 50 lbs.

X

More than 50 lbs.

X

Use computer/keyboard

X

EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE:

Required: Bachelor's degree with ten years of research experience to include three years of supervisory experience

Preferred: Masters degree with six years of research experience

Education
Required: Bachelor's degree in one of the natural sciences or related field.

Preferred: Master's degree in biological Science

Experience

Required: Five years of experience in scientific or experimental research work. With preferred degree, three years of required experience.

Preferred: Animal handling experience.

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