Research Assistant II​/Interventional Radiology

University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is a leading academic cancer center dedicated to eliminating cancer through integrated programs in patient care, research, prevention, and education.

Research Assistant II role supports innovative scientific discovery by contributing to research initiatives that advance image-guided therapy and biomaterials development. As a Research Assistant II, the selected candidate will work within the Interventional Radiology Department and the Diagnostic Imaging – Research Division under the direction of a Principal Investigator.

Interventional Radiology Department conducts research focused on advancing imaging technologies and therapeutic approaches that improve patient outcomes. The Research Assistant II position supports the development and characterization of biomaterials, including hydrogels, scaffolds, injectable bone cements, multifunctional agents, and absorbable medical devices. The Research Assistant II will contribute to laboratory studies, data analysis, imaging research, and educational activities that support the mission of UT MD Anderson.

Ideal Candidate will possess a Master’s degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or pharmaceutical science and have prior experience with scientific or experimental research, nanoparticle fabrication, and in vitro and in vivo imaging. Individuals with a strong foundation in chemistry, biology, experimental design, data processing, and a willingness to learn new laboratory and imaging techniques will be well suited for this opportunity.

At UT MD Anderson, this role offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting‑edge research focused on biomaterials, imaging sciences, and image‑guided therapies that support the institution's mission to end cancer. Team members collaborate with leading researchers, gain exposure to advanced imaging technologies, participate in scientific publications and presentations, and benefit from professional development opportunities in a highly innovative academic environment.

• 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.

• Participate in scientific research projects under the direction of professional staff members.
• Assist in the synthesis of scaffolds, multifunctional nanoparticles based on gold, SPIO, and polymers, micro-bubbles, liposomes, and micelles.
• Support the development of injectable bone cements and absorbable medical devices for interventional radiology applications.
• Prepare phantoms for imaging experiments.
• Process and maintain cell cultures independently without direct hourly oversight.
• Assist in collecting biological tissue from laboratory rodents.

• Process imaging data and assist with imaging protocol adjustments based on experimental findings.
• Support the characterization of biomaterials through in vitro and in vivo studies.
• Assist with the operation of clinical and experimental imaging scanners, including CT, MRI, PET/CT, and optical imaging systems, based on experience level.
• Apply scientific methods, data processing techniques, and experimental design principles to research activities.

• Compile research data and submit results for inclusion in publications, grants, and research protocols.
• Utilize word processing, spreadsheet, graphic, and statistical software to create charts, posters, reports, and research summaries.
• Present research findings during laboratory meetings.
• Attend seminars and review scientific literature related to ongoing experiments.