Research Assistant II

Summary

The primary purpose of the Research Assistant II position is to perform technical assistance and coordination skills in carrying out various research projects in the department of GI Medical Oncology. Projects will include the use of basic to intermediate molecular biology and genetic techniques.

Key Functions

1. Molecular techniques: Perform basic to intermediate molecular biology techniques such as DNA, RNA and protein extraction and measurement, DNA, RNA and protein gel electrophoresis (agarose and polycrylamide), real-time quantitative RT-PCR, recombinant DNA cloning (transformation and mutagenesis) and computer analysis of DNA sequences and PCR and primer design, and library preparation. Work will also involve the use antibodies in various immunostaining techniques and other indirect immunofluorescence techniques such as for flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry. 



1. Tissue culture: Maintain numerous established cell lines using standard tissue culture techniques including; plating cells, determining cell counts and cell viability, transient and stable transfections, proliferation and functional assays, freezing cell lines properly to assure cell viability and aid in maintaining an organized cell repository.

1. Record keeping: Maintain accurate, detailed records of experimental data and protocols in accordance with methods requested. This involves the use of computers to analyze, organize and plot data and for entry of data into databases.

1. Communication: Must be able to understand and carry out instructions both verbal and written. Must be able to communicate results as well as any potential problems with experiments, in a clear and understandable manner to the supervisor and in lab meetings. Must be able to read articles and references and develop step-by-step written procedures to conduct experiments as well as communicate this information to the supervisor and other lab members.

1. Safety: Must maintain a clean and orderly work place. Must have the ability and willingness to observe and comply with all institutional rules and OSHA regulations regarding biohazard and radiation safety. Must have a working knowledge in the proper handling of hazardous chemicals such as phenol, ethidium bromide, acrylamide, and formamide. Must have a basic understanding of and willingness to work with radioisotopes.

1. General requirements: Must exhibit the following; a working knowledge of various laboratory equipment and apparatus, standard radiographic techniques and basic techniques for handling chemicals and accurately prepare media, solutions and reagents; an understanding of the basic scientific terminology and concepts central to cancer research; an ability to perform searches and retrieval of information both through the library and on line; a willingness to learn new techniques, to cooperate with other staff, students, fellows, visitors and collaborators, and to assist in other laboratory activities as needed.

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