Senior Research Assistant - Flow Cytometry

SUMMARY
The primary purpose of the Senior Research Assistant position is to assist with the planning and implementation of laboratory experiments on research and clinical specimens and facilitate translational and clinical research projects in the ORION core lab.

JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES

Technical Functions Function in an independent manner, and have the ability to design research experiments.
Discusses goals of each project with supervisor; with the help of supervisor, develops a step-by-step written procedure outlining the specific actions required to conduct the experiment before proceeding
Ability to work on several research projects concurrently in an independent manner
Perform flow cytometry and proteomic detection assays such as Luminex and MSD.
Engage in the development of new ORION core assays such as cell sorting, ELISPOT and testing procedures for generation of single cell suspensions from tumor tissue.
Compile research data and submit results to for inclusion in publications, grants or protocols.

Laboratory Operation Carry out lab duties that may include purchasing, organization, EHS compliance and lab safety.
Responsible for major participation in the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for new platforms and assays
Monitors and maintains supply inventory so that work flow is not negatively affected.

Collaboration and Presentation Interacts and participates in collaborative studies inside and outside MD Anderson.
Trains other research personnel and ORION core users on established assays, and use of laboratory equipment
Prepare final reports in the format requested for the data generated by suggested due date
Willingness to learn and to help others in the implementation of new techniques

Data Maintenance Enter and maintain data from research activities in notebook/computer databases as appropriate.
Performs and documents all required quality control/quality assurance.
Maintains accurate, detailed records and experimental data and protocols
Prepares graphs, slides and tables via photography, computer, or manually.
Collaborates or assists supervisor and senior research staff with preparation of reports and grant requests.
Acquires and maintains proficiency in computer functions.
Able to work with database, graphing and word processing computer programs such as Microsoft Excel, Power Point, Word and Prism
Must be able to fully communicate results and understand instructions from principal investigator and colleagues.

Other duties as assigned

COMPETENCIES

Analytical Thinking - Gather relevant information systematically; break down problems into simple components; make sound decisions.

Develop Oneself - Pursue learning and self-development; actively seek feedback; transfer learning into next steps; set high standards of performance; drive for results and achievement.

Innovative Thinking - Approach problems with curiosity and open-mindedness; offer new ideas, solutions and/or options.

Inspire Trust - Show consistency among principles, values, and behavior; gain the confidence and trust of others.

Listen to Others - Listen to feedback and input carefully; demonstrate attention to others; acknowledge and listen to differing perspectives in a group.

Oral Communication - Express ideas clearly and concisely in groups and one-to-one conversations; create an environment with open channels of communication.

Self-Adaptability - Work in situations involving uncertainty, shifting priorities, and rapid change; deal constructively with mistakes and setbacks; demonstrate flexibility.

Strategic Thinking - Define strategic goals and issues clearly; apply broad knowledge and experience when addressing strategic issues; foresee obstacles and opportunities relating to change or improvement.

Equipment Usage and Safety Preparedness - Employee maintains expectations for safety preparedness, including but not limited to: Orientation to new equipment, Employee Education Event, CPR training, fire drills.

Medical Knowledge - Employee demonstrates medical knowledge as defined by position description.

Professionalism - Employee demonstrates commitment to collaborative professional relationships with physicians and all members of the heath care team.

Systems-Based Practice - Employee demonstrates his/her impact on the system of care.

Technical/Functional Expertise - Demonstrate technical proficiency required to do the job; possess up-to-date knowledge in the profession; provide technical expertise to others.

Written Communication - Convey information clearly and concisely through both formal and informal documents; adapt writing style to fit the audience.

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