The primary purpose of the Senior Research Assistant position is to provide technical and coordination skills in carrying out various research projects as they pertain to the implementation of new technologies and performing routine in vivo and in vitro experiments related to cancer therapeutic development. Working with mice is a must. This position is also responsible for learning, operating and maintaining laboratory equipment, keeping accurate records and evaluating data in accordance with methods requested or established in SOPs.

Key Functions

• Performing in vivo experiments which include implantation of cell lines and patient-derived tumors in mice; daily drug treatments, tumor measurements, tissue harvesting and processing.
• Performance of all required laboratory tasks and experiments that include cell biological experiments like maintenance of cell lines, performing cell proliferation, invasion, cell death & apoptosis assays; Biochemical and molecular experiments like DNA/RNA, metabolite & protein isolation, cloning, western blot analysis, qRT-PCR, immunoprecipitations, & flow cytometry; Immunochemical analysis of cells and tissues using confocal microscopy and bright-field microscopy.

• Learning and working with routine analytical software and generating graphs and figures of data. Learning and operating specialized experiments like Seahorse Extracellular Flux analysis, and multicolor flow cytometry.

• Pipetting and preparation of large number of samples for high-throughput screens.

• Operation of laboratory apparatus and equipment. Preparation of stock solutions and buffers. Maintenance of laboratory supplies and ordering of necessary reagents for future experiments in a timely manner.

• Maintain a clear record of all experimental work performed. Ensures that records are properly maintained and consistently reflect the current status of the lab work. Keeps and updates records of cell lines, analytical and tissue samples collected. Keeps and updates records of cell lines generated in the laboratory, received from other laboratories or cell lines being frozen or thawed in our lab.

• Performance of experiments as directed by supervisor, within the time frame specified. Transportation of samples and Performance of experiments in off-site locations when needed. Other duties, as assigned.
• Other duties as assigned

Core Competencies

• IC - Analytical Thinking:
  • Gather relevant information systematically;
  • Break down problems into simple components; and
  • Make sound decisions.
• IC - Build Relationships:
  • Initiate, develop, and manage relationships and networks; and
  • Show sincere interest in others and their concerns.
• IC--Self-Adaptability:
  • Work in situations involving uncertainty, shifting priorities, and rapid change; deal constructively with mistakes and setbacks; demonstrate flexibility.
• IC--Innovative Thinking:
  • Approach problems with curiosity and open-mindedness; offer new ideas, solutions, and/or options.
• IC--Strategic Thinking:
  • Define strategic goals and issues clearly; apply broad knowledge and experience when addressing strategic issues; foresee obstacles and opportunities relating to change or improvement.
• IC--Self-Motivation:
  • Set high standards of performance; pursue goals with energy and persistence; drive for results and achievement.

Working Conditions

This position requires:

Working in Office Environment

______ No

__ X ___Yes

Working in Laboratory Environment

______ No

__ X ___Yes

Exposure to human/animal blood, body fluids, or tissues

______ No

__ X ___ Yes

Exposure to harmful chemicals

______ No

__ X ___ Yes

Exposure to radiation

__ X ___No

______ Yes

Exposure to animals

_____ No

__ X __ Yes

Physical Demands

Indicate the time required to do each of the following physical demands:

Time Spent

Never

0%

Occasionally

1-33%

Frequently

34-66%

Continuously

67-100%

Standing

Walking

Sitting

Reaching

Lifting/Carrying

Up to 10 lbs

10lbs to 50 lbs

More than 50 lbs

Pushing/Pulling

Up to 10 lbs

10lbs to 50 lbs

More than 50 lbs

Use computer/keyboard

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

Preferred: Master's degree in one of the natural sciences or related field.

EXPERIENCE:
Required: Three years of experience in scientific or experimental research work. With preferred degree, one year of required 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