Research Scientist

Research Scientist

Description - External

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 2021-2022 rankings. It is one of the nation's original three comprehensive cancer centers designated by the National Cancer Institute.

MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of The University of Texas MD 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 Scientist is to provide technical expertise and experience through coordinating, designing, and carrying out translational research projects. All projects will be conducted with IRB approval and in compliance with institutional regulatory requirements. The scope of this position impacts cancer research efforts in Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology and throughout the institution. Candidate should have previous extensive in vivo pharmacology/experimental therapeutics research experience in solid tumors supported by first-author publications it high-impact journals.

Key Functions

• Independently perform in vivo and in vitro studies for the validation and characterization of targets or therapeutic agents in oncology and tumor immunology.

• Independently perform in vivo model development, target inhibition, efficacy, mechanism of action, and PK/PD studies, and will evaluate the influence of dose, schedule, and therapeutic combinations in various cancer models:

Perform survival surgeries for implantation of patient derived tumor fragments (PDX) and cell lines.

Hands-on experience of drug dosing techniques (such as oral gavage, IP and SQ) are required.

Measure tumor response via caliper and non-invasive imaging methods.

Perform non-survival animal surgeries for collection of specimens for molecular characterization and ex vivo treatment. Previous experience with necropsy and mouse tissue (blood, bone marrow, spleen, lymph nodes, etc) collection are required.

Immune cell isolation and analysis from human tumor and mouse tissue (bone marrow, spleen, lymph nodes).

Analyze the outcome of efficacy studies.

Orthotopic and intrasplenic injection.

Immunocompetent mouse model generation

• Plan and perform independent research projects using experimental assays techniques such as DNA, RNA, protein extraction, western blotting, Q-Real Time, and digital PCR, IHC, ELISA and FACS.

• Generate animal transgene expression and targeting constructs, including those using Cre/lox and CRISPR technologies.

• Coordinate collection of clinical samples with clinical research personnel, including implantation and maintenance of patient-derived xenografts.

• Maintain accurate data storage and record filling systems to include all pertinent data and specifications on all experiments performed. Use computer programs for data analysis and presentation. Review and analyze scientific data and laboratory test results.

• Maintain a safe laboratory environment, including updating regulatory documents for animal use, chemical and laboratory safety.

• Train and supervise new employees and visitors on basic laboratory skills.

• Ability to work well under pressure, drive projects to meet critical timelines and display flexibility to accommodate to rapidly changing priorities and deadlines is required.

• Collaborative attitude and ability to work in a team-based environment is crucial for this position.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Masters degree in one of the natural sciences or related field. Four years of experience in experimental or scientific work. With PhD, no experience required. With Medical degree, two years of experience in experimental or scientific work.

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