Research Investigator

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

The primary purpose of the Research Investigator is to assist the principal investigator with scientific research projects. The Research Investigator functions in a separate and independent manner in the design and initiation of research experiments. Designs, develops or adapts assays used in experiments or research to obtain desired results. Determines specific goals or objectives to be obtained, evaluates research data and develops and revises techniques or approaches to work problems. Plans training and research work activity for assigned laboratory and research personnel. Supervises the use of laboratory equipment and implements safety procedures. Complies, writes and submits project results to superiors.

JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES

Experimental Design Plan and execute experiments for assessment of cancer imaging and therapeutic drugs through molecular biology techniques. Design and perform assays that will be used to drive drug development. Adapt to new technologies and find solutions to related projects. Utilize common molecular biology skills including Western blotting, ELISA, PCR, Q-PCR, DNA/RNA isolation, protein expression and purification, immunofluorescence, live imaging. Perform tissue culture and cell-based assays for in vitro evaluation of new molecules. Demonstrate knowledge and skills of immunohistochemistry, flowcytometry, confocal microscope. May work with radioactive materials and handle animals with radioactivity.

Animal Experimentation Perform animal work with mouse models including tumor establishment, administration of treatments, tumor measurements, and tumor/tissue harvests. Familiar with mouse models including subcutaneous, orthotopic xenografts, patient derived xenografts and genetically engineered models (GEM) of cancer. Maintain GEM mouse colony.

Data Analysis Preparation/Presentation/Publications Analyze and prepare data for publications and grant proposals, through formatting editing and statistical analysis, generating publication ready figures. Interpret, present and report research findings to PI, at internal and external meetings.

Other duties as assigned

Required: Bachelor's degree in one of the natural sciences or related field.

Preferred Experience: Experience in MR hyperpolarization in a preclinical and/or a clinical setting. Proven experience and expertise in NMR metabolomics, MR metabolic flux assay and hyperpolarization of silicon micro and nanoparticles.

Required: Five years of experience in scientific or experimental research work. With preferred degree, three years of required experience.

Preferred Education: Doctorate (Academic)

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