Research Assistant I - Molecular & Cellular Oncology

The Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology (MCO) mission is to enable and apply basic research excellence to contribute to ending cancer significantly. The department's oncology-driven research focuses on fundamental mechanistic discoveries and their translation to humans. As a basic science department at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, MCO strives to enhance basic research excellence by establishing a robust research group focused on the molecular and cellular aspects of cancer research, particularly in signaling pathways and crosstalk between tumor and tumor microenvironment in tumor initiation, progression and metastasis, and resistance to various therapies. MCO hosts MD Anderson's Functional Genomics Core with the support of the Cancer Center Supporting Grant (CCSG). In addition, MCO faculty are core members of the Cancer Biology and Metastasis Program of CCSG, rated "exceptional" in the last competing renewal.

KEY FUNCTIONS

Maintains the Laboratory Mouse Colony

• This will include extensive record-keeping, breeder setups, monitoring and weaning pups, ear tagging, tail snipping, euthanizing, and genotyping.
• Aid in animal experiments including imaging, tissue harvesting, tissue processing, and tissue immunohistochemistry.

Conducts Research Experiments and Projects

• Conduct research projects with supervision; may include but not limited to isolating DNA/RNA, PCR/QPCR, and tissue culture.
• Learns equipment and relevant software needed for experiments.
• Discuss all stages of projects with senior members and supervisor at lab meetings.

Data Gathering and Analysis

• Use computer software efficiently for data acquisition, analysis, reporting and presentation.
• Records and evaluates data in accordance with methods requested.
• Maintain inventories, keeping precise, timely and accurate records.

General Laboratory Duties

• Prepare reagent stocks as directed by senior members and supervisor.
• Perform laboratory safety and provide general lab support as needed.
• Assist in ordering supplies when the lab manager is absent.

Education

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

Experience

Required: No 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