Research Assistant I Radiation Oncology - Research

The primary purpose of the Research Assistant I position is to provide technical and coordination skills in carrying out various research projects. Coordinates and conducts experiments and carries out research projects. 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. Impacts laboratory research activities.

Key Functions/job specific competencies

• Assists with activities involving in vivo work with mice involving radiotherapy and immunotherapy.
• Collects and processes biological specimens (blood and tissue).
• Maintains accurate and timely records to include notebooks, records, databases, etc. as needed by the research projects.
• Monitors laboratory and/or other supplies to ensure sufficient inventor and high quality of reagents to support research projects.
• Plan and perform experiments in support of research projects in lab and/or field based on knowledge of scientific theory. Interpret and perform basic analyses of results.
• Manage and maintain the lab's mouse colony by breeding, genotyping, euthanizing animals and performing injections and surgical procedures as needed.
• Perform daily animal care and health check. Routine husbandry such as weaning and ear-tagging.
• Assist in experiments that require knowledge of molecular biology, cell-based assays, and tissue culture techniques.
• Maintain accurate, detailed records of the protocols and experimental data, including mouse record and data. Compile, write, and submit work reports to the supervisor.
• Assist in the preparation and submission of manuscripts, protocols, and other documents. This requires a great deal of knowledge regarding experimental procedures, as well as excellent language and communication skills.
• Order centralized supplies, monitor lab expenses, and communicate cost-effective alternatives.
• Organize and develop training to ensure that lab members have current knowledge of specialized lab procedures.
• Perform laboratory maintenance such as maintaining/cleaning equipment, organizing repair procedures, maintain lab stocks, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and provide general lab support as needed.
• Help orient and train new staff or students
• Other duties may also be assigned

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

Experience
Required: No experience.

Preferred: Lab 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