Research Assistant II

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 Assistant II is to coordinate and conduct experiments and laboratory procedures to support translational research projects for the MD Anderson Cancer Center Program for Innovative Microbiome and Translational Research (PRIME-TR).

The work will primarily focus on procuring, handling, and processing of human specimens from observational studies and interventional trials with the purpose of microbiome profiling and biobanking. The work requires previous coursework and preferably laboratory experience in microbiology, molecular biology, and handling of human specimens.

This person will particularly need research and interpersonal skills to work with basic research scientists, trainees including fellows, as well as clinicians for patient-based sample acquisition, processing, and analyses as a part of very dynamic translational research team.

Key Functions

• Sample receipt from collaborators, inventory, aliquoting, and storage for biobanking purposes.
• Molecular biology work including sample preparation, nucleic acid extraction, qPCR, next-generation sequencing in a BSL2 laboratory.
• Assists in experiments such as cell-based assays, qPCR, flow cytometry, immunoassays, and tissue cell culture techniques.
• Assists sample collection and processing from preclinical experiments.
• Assists in the development and implementation of standard operating procedures.
• Maintains and supports shared tools and databases.
• Documents experimental results and maintains clear record of all experimental work performed in laboratory notebooks and completes all documentation with clear and accurate language according to the standard operating procedures.
• Assists in general laboratory operation, ensures the laboratory is prepared for experiments, perform related laboratory maintenance such as maintaining and cleaning equipment.
• Assist with monitoring and stocking supplies, preparation of stock solutions and other reagents.
• Orders supplies for projects and monitors and anticipate laboratory needs in terms of equipment and supplies.
• Participate in laboratory meetings and presents progress reports.
• Studies literature and confers with supervisor regarding new procedures.
• General lab maintenance including but not limited to ordering or organizing laboratory supplies and ensuring maintenance of equipment.
• Perform additional work as required.

Working Conditions

This position requires :

Yes

No

Working in Office Environment

X

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

X

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

X

Exposure to harmful chemicals

X

Exposure to radiation

X

Exposure to animals

X

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

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

Preferred: Master's degree with major course work in genetics or genomics or one of the basic sciences.

Experience

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

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