Research Scientist - Translational Molecular Pathology

The Translational Molecular Pathology (TMP) department at MD Anderson Cancer Center is dedicated to advancing precision oncology by translating laboratory discoveries into innovative diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies. Through close collaboration among scientists, clinicians, and researchers, the department develops novel technologies and investigates the molecular mechanisms of cancer to improve patient outcomes. TMP provides an exciting, multidisciplinary environment where scientific innovation directly contributes to the future of cancer treatment.

This Research Scientist position offers the opportunity to lead independent research while helping shape the scientific direction of a dynamic laboratory. The role is ideal for an experienced researcher who enjoys designing innovative experiments, mentoring junior scientists, developing new technologies, and collaborating across multiple research programs to advance translational cancer research.

In this role, you will independently design, execute, troubleshoot, and interpret complex scientific experiments, utilizing a wide range of molecular and cellular biology techniques, including cell and tissue culture methods. You will investigate molecular mechanisms of cancer, identify potential therapeutic opportunities, and develop new assays and technologies that expand the laboratory's research capabilities and support long-term scientific goals.

Beyond scientific research, you will play an integral role in laboratory leadership and operations. Responsibilities include managing day-to-day laboratory functions, overseeing procurement of laboratory supplies, maintaining laboratory equipment, supporting efficient laboratory operations, and ensuring research projects progress smoothly. You will work closely with the Principal Investigator to support collaborative studies across MD Anderson while helping introduce new methodologies and innovative research approaches.

This position also offers significant opportunities for scientific leadership, mentorship, and professional development. You will directly train and mentor research assistants, graduate and undergraduate students, clinical and research fellows, and visiting scientists while ensuring laboratory personnel remain current with institutional training requirements. Candidates who are passionate about developing the next generation of scientists and fostering a collaborative research environment will find this aspect of the role especially rewarding.

A strong emphasis is placed on scientific communication and scholarly contributions. You will maintain detailed laboratory records, present research findings at laboratory meetings, interpret experimental results, recommend improvements to study design, and contribute to manuscripts, grant proposals, and scientific publications. Strong written and verbal communication skills, along with the ability to translate complex scientific findings into meaningful research outcomes, are essential for success.

The ideal candidate will possess extensive laboratory research experience, demonstrated scientific independence, strong leadership and mentoring abilities, and a passion for advancing translational cancer research. Individuals who enjoy balancing hands-on scientific discovery with laboratory management and team development will find exceptional opportunities for professional growth and impact in this role.

MD Anderson offers a comprehensive total rewards package, including paid medical benefits, generous paid time off, retirement plans, tuition assistance, professional development opportunities, and additional benefits, along with the opportunity to build a rewarding scientific career at one of the world's leading cancer centers dedicated to advancing patient care through research, innovation, and discovery.

** The ideal candidate will have a PhD*
* JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES

Research Laboratory Functions

Manage the lab to ensure smooth operations. This entails, but is not limited to, the following: (1) training, support and supervision of other lab personnel; (2) oversight of procurement processes to ensure appropriate lab supplies and optimal maintenance of equipment through service support. Independently plan and execute scientific experiments, including unsupervised troubleshooting and evaluation of experimental results.

- Carry out basic and complex laboratory procedures including: cell/tissue culture methods, translating molecular insights, and identifying therapeutic opportunities.

- Assists PI in ongoing and further collaborative studies with other laboratories, including development of new assays and techniques.

- Develop new technologies and assays in lines with laboratory goals aimed at expanding the depth and scope of research initiatives.

Publications/Reports

Provides thorough reports of experiments performed both in a laboratory notebook and verbally present at weekly group meetings. These reports will include interpretation of the results, rationale for…