Research Assistant II

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 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. This position will focus on processing and analyzing data from patient samples from cervical cancer patients treated with a tumor directed vaccine with chemotherapy and radiation. Samples will be analyzed to detect immune responses directed at tumor proteins and identifying predictors of treatment response.

KEY FUNCTIONS

• Will need to have strong organizational skills to maintain and keep track of patient samples.
• The project will involve the analysis of genomic and proteomic changes in cells and tissues using various methods including, but not limited to, DNA extractions, quantitative PCR, immunohistochemistry.
• Will utilize various basic molecular biology techniques including cell culture experiments.
• Maintain laboratory environment including ordering of supplies and organization of supplies and equipment
• Maintain clear and accurate records of laboratory data, both written and electronic, accessible at all times by the supervisor.
• Communicate effectively with supervisor through informal discussion on a daily basis, weekly one-on-one meeting, laboratory meetings, and department seminars.
• Collaborate and communicate effectively with other members in the lab.
• Sometime may need to serve as Lab Rep on department Lab Council by timely and consistent attendance at all meetings and communicating clearly all current and new policies, guidelines and information back to all lab staff.

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