Research Assistant I

Title

Research Assistant I (Tissue Bank)

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

Provides Technical Assistance in carrying out various research projects.

JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES

Tumor and Basic Research Responsible for the daily organization and associated duties of working with and maintaining tumor sample analyses and the handling of human and animal tissue samples. Interaction with the research nurses to obtain patient blood samples and/or tumor samples maybe necessary. The work may also involve handling of animals and animal protocols. The individual must maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records. Alertness and careful attention to details must be maintained at all times. Coordinates and conducts experiments and carries out research projects in varied areas of chemistry, biology, physics and other biomedical, dental 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.

Molecular and Cell Biology Research Perform laboratory work in molecular and cellular biology including but not limited to DNA preparation, RNA extraction, PCR, flow cytometry, ELISA, ELISPOT, proliferation and cytotoxicity assays, tissue culture (animal and human), and magnetic cell separation. Requires manual dexterity to handle pipetting tasks, visual activity to see and manipulate very small quantities. Must work independently to see that samples are obtained and processed in a timely and consistent fashion. This requires both an understanding of the methodology and the ability to independently troubleshoot problems and to ask for help when appropriate. The position requires standing for long periods of time, bending at the waist to pick up laboratory supplies, moving within the laboratory and between different core facilities of the hospital involved in the experimentation. Must be able to lift 15 pound above the shoulders. Work will involve handling materials under BL-2 safety conditions.

Clinical Database Maintains/designs clinically based computer databases via keyboard on PC, mainframe, discs, tapes, backups, and entry. Input data into the computer database by typing on a keyboard all information as required. The source of such data may be from doctors, patients, family members, physician assistants, research nurses and/or other personnel. Maintains thorough, accurate, legible, and organized handwritten records of all experiments.

Other duties as assigned

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