Research Assistant II

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston is one of the world's most respected centers focused on cancer patient care, research, education and prevention. It was named the nation's No. 1 hospital for cancer care in U.S. News & World Report's 2018 rankings. It is one of the nation's original three comprehensive cancer centers designated by the National Cancer Institute.

The primary purpose of a Research Assistant II is to provide technical and coordination skills in carrying out various research projects.

Key Functions

1. RESEARCH PROJECT MANAGEMENT

• Perform clinical and laboratory research projects

• Provide technical and coordination skills in carrying out various research and development projects and perform experiments by following standard operating procedures (SOP) to determining the therapeutic efficacy of anti-cancer agents either individually or in combination.
• Conduct low risk laboratory studies by screening patients for study eligibility, consenting, registering patients in CORe, writing study notes and consenting process in Epic, taking patients off study in CORe upon study completion.
• Tissue sample collection from diagnostic center.
• Blood sample collection by drawing blood or ordering z-code.
• Prepare samples for shipment

• Basic Techniques in Molecular Biology/Cancer Biology: Extract DNA, RNA, or protein samples from cells or tissues.
• Responsible for ordering laboratory supplies, maintaining inventory of antibodies, cell lines, plasmids, and preparing common reagents such as buffers and plasmids.
• Keep accurate records of experimental design and results, perform accurate data analysis of experimental results and communicate these records to PI and other members of the laboratory.
• Prepare final reports in the format requested for the data generated by suggested due date.
• Compile research data and submit results to PI for inclusion in publications, grants or protocols.
• Have knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet software, graphic and statistical programs to create charts, posters and reports of the results.
• Diligence and willingness to learn and to help others in the implementation of new techniques

1. DATA MANAGEMENT

• Obtain patient information including demographic and pertinent reports from the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) to extract data points.

• Perform some data entry and transfer patient information into protocol specific database, case report forms, electronic database (i.e. RedCap, CORe and Sponsor Database).
• Maintain high quality of database and ensure data entry is accurate and timely.

1. COMMUNICATION

• Use proactive and effective communication skills in complex patient/research situations to achieve optimal resolutions. Serve as a single point-of-contact for all parties involved in the research process to establish an environment that fosters positive interpersonal relationships. Recognizes diversity in people and is sensitive to these characteristics in order to maximize outcomes.
  • Provide example of complex problem solving and is able to effectively mentor colleagues to do the same.
  • Promote excellent customer service to patients, monitors, sponsors and multidisciplinary colleagues.
  • Effectively work with multidisciplinary teams, sponsors, and multi-institutional teams to coordinate shared protocols.
  • Communicate professionally with colleagues, is respectful of individual differences, and resolves issues quickly.
  • Adhere to attendance policy and coverage guidelines.

1. Other duties assigned

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.

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