Research Assistant II

The Breast Medical Oncology department seeks to improve the survival of breast cancer patients, provide new knowledge through research, patient-centered clinical care, cancer prevention, and education and outreach with the ultimate goal of eliminating breast cancer.

The Research Assistant II will perform breast cancer research laboratory experiments with minimal supervision from research faculty. The role requires proficiency in core molecular biology techniques, such as Western blotting, nucleic acid purification, Real-Time PCR, ELISA and mammalian tissue culture.

Experience with in vivo mouse work is highly desirable. Additional responsibilities include mainlining laboratory supplies and reagents, placing and tracking orders, and assisting faculty in data acquisition, organization and analysis.

The ideal candidate will possess hands-on experience in cell culture techniques, demonstrated proficiency in molecular and cellular biology methodologies, and experience with in vivo mouse models is preferred.

Minimum $21.63 - Midpoint $27.16 - Maximum $32.69 per hour based on a 40-hour work week.

Work location:

Texas Medical Center, onsite.

* Why Us?
* This role offers the opportunity to contribute to impactful breast cancer research at UT MD Anderson while gaining hands-on experience in advanced laboratory techniques, in vivo research models, and collaborative scientific discovery. The Research Assistant II role supports professional development within a mission-driven organization committed to improving patient outcomes and advancing cancer research.

- Employer-paid medical coverage starting day one for employees working 30+ hours/week, plus optional group dental, vision, life, AD&D, and disability insurance.

- Accruals for PTO and Extended Illness Bank, plus paid holidays, wellness, childcare, and other leave options.

- Tuition Assistance Program after six months of service and access to extensive wellness, fitness, and employee resource groups.

- Defined-benefit pension through the Teachers Retirement System, voluntary retirement plans, and employer-paid life and reduced salary protection programs.

* Responsibilities
* * Research Support
* - Design and execute molecular biology experiments including DNA, RNA, and protein extraction and quantification

- Perform agarose and SDS-PAGE gel electrophoresis, real-time quantitative RT-PCR, ELISA, and recombinant DNA cloning

- Perform and optimize mammalian cell culture workflows including maintenance, passaging, cryopreservation, and contamination control

- Analyze and interpret experimental data and prepare figures and summaries for lab meetings, reports, and publications

- Manage multiple concurrent research projects while meeting timelines and research objectives

- Maintain detailed experimental documentation to ensure data integrity and reproducibility

- Establish and manage mouse models including orthotopic and subcutaneous tumor implantation

- Perform in vivo procedures such as oral gavage and intraperitoneal injections

- Monitor animal health, tumor growth, and treatment response and record in vivo data

- Design and execute in vivo tumor growth and therapeutic efficacy studies in compliance with IACUC protocols

* Data Management & Record Keeping
* - Maintain detailed electronic laboratory notebooks documenting procedures, results, and sample tracking

- Curate, validate, and organize datasets for analysis and reporting

- Ensure documentation remains accurate, compliant, and audit-ready

* Laboratory Operations
* - Maintain laboratory organization, inventory, and workflow coordination

- Prepare reagents and media using precise molarity calculations

- Operate, calibrate, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment

- Monitor critical equipment parameters and initiate maintenance or repair requests

- Safely handle hazardous chemicals and biological materials in compliance with OSHA and institutional guidelines

* Collaboration
* - Collaborate with faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and research staff to advance project goals

- Communicate experimental progress, challenges, and results clearly and effectively

- Coordinate weekend and holiday schedules to support continuity of animal studies

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