Senior Research Assistant - Cancer Biology

SUMMARY

The primary purpose of the Senior Research Assistant is to perform experiments focused on molecular analyses of tissues and cells, nucleic acid analyses and manipulation, gene expression profiling, cloning, and tissue culture. The incumbent is responsible for maintaining supply levels and safety standards in the laboratory as well as for training other personnel in special techniques. The position requires independent decision making, judgment and organizational skills.

JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES

Lab and Animal Studies

Performing laboratory studies using complex techniques including tissue culture (maintaining mammalian cells, growth assays, drug response assays), nucleic acid extraction, PCR, immunoblotting, immunocytochemistry and immunohistochemistry.

Performing animal studies including injecting tumor cells, monitoring and recording progress of experiments, necropsy, preparation of tissue samples for histological processing. Animals include "nude" and conventional mice.

Techniques and Records Responsible for major participation in the development and revision of techniques, assembles and operates laboratory apparatus and equipment. Orders and organizes supplies for the laboratory. Performs regular monitoring of safety standards in the laboratory, maintains records of hazardous materials.

Reports and Grants Collaborates or assists with supervisor and senior research staff with preparation of reports and grant requests.

Supervises Supervises technicians in their work and assists them as assigned or delegated. Assists new members of the laboratory/department in the use of nude mice and tissue culture techniques

Laboratory Organization and Monitoring a) Orders and organizes supplies for the laboratory.

b) Performs regular monitoring of safety standards in the laboratory, maintains records of hazardous materials.

Bachelor's degree in one of the natural sciences or related field. Three years of experience in scientific or experimental research work. With preferred degree, one year of required 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