SUMMARY

The Fuentes Laboratory employs a variety of techniques to characterize how nanoscale changes to lipids and proteins in the tumor microenvironment influence immunosuppression and other disease processes. We aim to lay the groundwork for novel preventive and therapeutic strategies targeting membrane spatial dynamics.

The primary purpose of the Research Assistant I position is to carry out specific experiments designed to improve the functional understanding of processes involved in in early and late carcinogenesis. This may include the implementation of protocols as they relate to specimens obtained from human pancreatic and colon cancer patients and genetically engineered mouse models (cell lines, tissues), isolation of 2D, 3D/organoid cell lines, functional in vitro and in vivo assays.

JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES

Laboratory Technical Function

• Maintains cancer cell lines using sterile technique. Extract protein lysates, DNA and RNA from cells.
• Performs a broad range of cell and molecular assays involving molecular biology and biochemistry of DNA, RNA and protein, including: Super-resolution imaging, IHC, immunofluorescence, western blot, flow cytometry and real time qPCR.
• Perform validation, optimization, and troubleshooting of real time qPCR protocols as they relate to DNA and RNA analysis from human and mouse samples.
• Perform optimization, and troubleshooting of single- and multiplex (OPAL) IHC, IF stainings and western blots.
• Perform isolation, culturing and downstream in vitro assays of primary cell originating from different cellular compartments of the mouse and human pancreas and colon including: acini or crypt isolation, 2D cell cultures, organoid cultures.
• Perform optimization and troubleshooting of functional assays including: MTT, Incucyte assays, drug screening.

Mouse Colony Management

• Oversee genetically engineered mouse colonies, mouse breeding schemes, genotyping, observation of in vivo drug studies, obtaining mouse specimens.
• Assumes shared responsibility for performing mouse genotyping

Laboratory Maintenance

• Assumes shared responsibility for general laboratory maintenance by
  • maintaining procedures and protocols that ensure the quality and integrity of procedures performed,
  • monitoring work flow as it pertains to the need for supplies, equipment maintenance and preparation of stock solutions,
  • keeping ample stock of supplies on hand,
  • following up on orders to ensure organization and accessibility of all reagents.
• Maintains an excellent working knowledge of all basic laboratory equipment and apparatus.
• Maintains Lab Functions to include ordering of supplies and ensures lab equipment is maintained in good operating order.

Other duties as assigned

EDUCATION

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

EXPERIENCE

Required: No experience.

Preferred: Cell culturing and mouse handling 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