Research Scientist

Overview

The Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics conducts broad Phase 1 studies across disease boundaries and molecular targets. We strive to provide outstanding patient care while performing innovative Phase 1 trials with new drugs that may eventually improve the management of cancer.

• Research Planning & Execution:
  Plan, organize, direct, and participate in experiments and assays related to patient sample processing; perform technical research activities aligned with projects and grants led by the principal investigator; determine and establish research goals and objectives; plan and execute procedures in cell biology and biochemistry including tissue culture, PCR, western blot, and flow cytometry; conduct in vivo studies from planning to reporting;
  
  lead small animal testing including placement and tracking of animal orders; troubleshoot experimental challenges to ensure project success; modify experimental procedures based on findings and literature review.
• Laboratory Operations & Sample Management:
  Process blood samples within two hours of receipt; process, store, catalog, and analyze patient samples using biomarker assays such as ELISA; provide laboratory services including tissue culture and sample processing; maintain laboratory equipment and perform routine maintenance; ensure compliance with safety protocols for chemicals and hazardous materials; manage laboratory inventory including biologics and supplies; coordinate ordering of research materials and monitor supply levels;
  
  maintain safety reports including chemical and radionuclide documentation.
• Team Leadership &
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Oversee personnel involved in research projects and monitor workflow; assign, review, and evaluate work of laboratory staff; interview and assist in hiring laboratory personnel; train and supervise technicians in laboratory techniques, equipment use, and safety procedures; collaborate with other laboratories and research teams; communicate experimental design and results to investigators and research staff; supervise junior PDX team members and support project coordination.
• Data Management & Reporting:
  Maintain detailed and organized laboratory journals and ensure team compliance; monitor data quality, reproducibility, and research integrity; analyze data using microscopy and image analysis systems; interpret experimental results and adjust methodologies as needed; compile and submit research findings to supervisors; prepare scientific documents for publications and grant submissions; present research results to professional groups and internal meetings; review scientific literature and adapt new techniques for research improvement.
• Protocol Development & Compliance:
  Develop and maintain standard operating procedures and protocols; write and implement all aspects of IACUC protocols; monitor workflow efficiency and laboratory operations; coordinate equipment maintenance and procurement; support compliance with institutional and regulatory standards.

• Education:
  
  Required – Master’s Degree in natural sciences or related field;
  Preferred – PhD in natural sciences or medical degree.
• Work Experience:
  
  Required – Four years of experimental or scientific work, or two years with a medical degree; or no experience required with a PhD. Preferred – experience with mouse work and at least five years of experience leading research projects, plus experience managing research administration activities (e.g., developing IACUC protocols and coordinating laboratory animal orders) and communicating findings to industry partners through meetings, presentations, and written reports.

Minimum salary: $32.93 per hour (Midpoint $41.11; Maximum $49.28).

Typical work schedule:
Hybrid.

Work Location:

Texas Medical Center.

At UT MD Anderson, this role offers the opportunity to directly contribute to pioneering cancer therapies through cutting-edge translational research. The position supports career growth by providing exposure to advanced laboratory techniques, leadership responsibilities, and collaboration with leading researchers, while maintaining a flexible hybrid work environment…