Research Assistant I - Genetics

The Genetics department is a basic science department located in the George and Cynthia Mitchell Basic Sciences Research Building at the world-renowned University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in the heart of the Texas Medical Center. The focus is on advancing knowledge of the molecular genetic mechanisms that regulate normal and abnormal cellular processes.

The primary responsibility of the Research Assistant I is to perform technical laboratory duties and carry out projects in accordance with our specific research. The goal of our research is to understand how cells respond to DNA damage and safeguard the integrity of the genome. We will use various biochemical and genetic approaches, including gene knockouts, mass spectrometry, and genetic screens using siRNA libraries, to identify important players in the DNA damage response pathway and define the roles of these proteins in maintaining genomic stability and tumor suppression.

Key Functions

Coordinates and conducts experiments and carries out research projects in varied areas of biochemisty, molecular biology, cancer biology, or related basic science areas. Constructs, assembles, and operates laboratory apparatus and equipment. Reads literature and confers with superiors regarding new procedures and modifies them according to the needs of the project. Records and evaluates data obtained in accordance with methods requested. The following job functions are expected:

• Tissue Culture
  1. Requires a willingness to learn and perform basic tissue culture techniques.
  2. Maintain and establish tissue culture cell lines, which requires good sterile technique.
• Perform routine laboratory procedures.
• Conduct experiments and carry out research projects in varied areas.
• Operate laboratory equipment and apparatus and perform routine operator maintenance.
• Maintain good, detailed experimental records.
• Collect and organize information for project reports, evaluate data in accordance with methods requested, maintain a complete and accurate inventory of samples.
• Monitor and anticipate laboratory needs.
• Keep ample stock of supplies on hand.
• Know the procedure for obtaining repair or maintenance for lab equipment.
• Prepare stock solutions.
• Perform laboratory maintenance, such as cleaning.
• Maintaining good working relationships within work area.
• Explain to staff members the scientific protocols currently being employed in the laboratory
• Collect and organize information for project reports.
• Other duties as required.

Education

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

Experience

Required: No 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