Research Asst I- Dr. Melancon's Lab

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 focus of this Research Assistant I position is to aid in the in vitro and in vivo testing of multifunctional agents for image-guided therapy. This position will require knowledge of basic cell biology, rodent handling, data processing and experimental design. Depending on the experience level of the candidate, it will also be possible to assist in operating clinical and experimental imaging scanners (such as ultrasound, CT, MRI, PET/CT, and optical imaging systems), as well as in the synthesis and characterization of novel imaging and/or therapeutic agents.

Key Functions

1. Participate in scientific research projects under the direction of a professional staff member. Function in an independent manner in the design of research experiments.
2. Independently maintain cell cultures and carry out cell-based functional assays for the different imaging and/or therapeutic agents.
3. Perform in vivo experiments on rodents (mice and rats), primarily on tumor induction, dissection, and collection of tissues, but may include assisting in surgical procedures.
4. Assist in performing in vivo imaging including optical imaging, ultrasound, CT, MRI, and PET/CT
5. Assist in the synthesis of multifunctional nanoparticles (based on high-Z materials and polymers), microbubble, liposomes, and micelles.
6. Assist in preparing phantoms for imaging experiments and processing imaging data and assist in imaging protocol adjustments based on newfound experimental results.
7. Participate and help other lab members to promote ongoing projects in the lab.
8. Maintains adequate level of lab supplies and ensures quality of reagents or other supplies. Maintains accurate and timely records to include notebooks, records, databases, etc. as needed by the research project.
9. Compile research data and submit results to superiors for inclusion in publications, grants or protocols. Application of word processing, spreadsheet software, graphic and statistical programs to create charts, posters and reports of the results.
10. Present findings of research projects to lab members during lab meetings.
11. Attend seminars and read scientific articles related to experiments being executed.
12. Train visitor scientists and students in research procedures and in the use of laboratory equipment.
13. Promotes diligence, willingness to learn and to help others in the implementation of new techniques.
14. Performs other duties as assigned.

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

Preferred Education: Master's degree with major course work in one of the basic sciences.,

Required Experience: No experience

Preferred Experience: : Prior experience with scientific or experimental research work, preferably animal handling and cell biology techniques.

. 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