Research Assistant II - Microbiome Cancer Center Support Grant

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 provide technical assistance in carrying out various research projects for the Microbiome Cancer Center Support Grant (CCSG) developing core facility under the Directorship of Robert Jenq, M.D. and co-Directorship of Samuel Shelburne, M.D. We are seeking a highly motivated enthusiastic person to help a primary investigator/clinician in a new core facility designed to address an unmet need in the institution with numerous opportunities to learn cutting-edge cancer research and carry out various research projects and assist in managing clinical specimens, clinical data, as well as animal experiments.

KEY FUNCTIONS

• Isolate DNA and RNA and quantify using standard molecular methods. Perform PCR, library preparation, and next-generation sequencing (NGS).
• Support and perform microbiology work, including preparing media, cultivating and identifying bacteria. Assist in experiments such as qPCR, cell-based assays, and tissue cell culture.
• Process fecal samples for microbiome assays.
• Maintain database, shared tools and datasets. Document experimental results and maintain a clear record of all experimental work performed in laboratory notebooks. Complete all documentation with clear and accurate language, according to the SOPs.
• This person will particularly need research and interpersonal skills to work with clinical research scientists, trainees, medical oncology fellows, and clinicians for patient-based sample acquisition, processing, and analyses as a part of a very dynamic translational research team.
• These tasks will require strong organizational skills, diligent execution of experimental procedures, and interpretation skills.
• Assist 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.
• Participate in laboratory meetings to present a progress report to colleagues.
• Maintain internal databases.
• Reads literature and confers with supervisor regarding new procedures.
• May instruct and train other staff and students in basic laboratory techniques in sequencing techniques.
• Follow safe laboratory practices and performs other duties as required.
• Work in a clinical and research setting.
• Performs other duties as required.

Working Conditions

This position requires:

Working in Office Environment

______ No

___X__ Yes

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

_____ No

___x___ Yes

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

_____ No

___x___ Yes

Exposure to harmful chemicals

_____ No

___x___ Yes

Exposure to radiation

_____ No

___x___ Yes

Exposure to animals

_____ No

___x___ Yes

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

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

Experience

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

Ideal Candidate:

Will have prior molecular biology experiences such as DNA and RNA isolation, PCR, and gel electrophoresis.

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