Research Assistant II - Leukemia

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is a leading institution focused on cancer care, research, education, and prevention. The Leukemia department is dedicated to advancing translational and clinical research through the collection, management, and analysis of biospecimens that support scientific discovery and improved patient outcomes. The Research Assistant II supports critical laboratory and research operations that contribute to leukemia-focused studies and biospecimen banking initiatives.

The Research Assistant II performs specialized laboratory procedures involving blood, bone marrow, and tissue samples while ensuring compliance with research protocols and institutional standards. The Research Assistant II works collaboratively with research nurses, laboratory personnel, and investigators to support specimen collection, processing, storage, documentation, and reporting activities. The Research Assistant II plays an essential role in maintaining specimen integrity and supporting the research mission of UT MD Anderson.

The ideal candidate will have experience supporting laboratory research operations involving biospecimen processing, molecular and cellular biology techniques, laboratory documentation, cell culture maintenance, and protocol compliance. Candidates should demonstrate strong attention to detail, the ability to work independently in a research environment, and experience collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to support successful research outcomes.

Salary Range:
Min $45,000 Mid $56,500 Max $68,000

The typical work schedule is day shift.

Work Location:

Houston, Texas (Onsite)

This position offers the opportunity to directly support innovative leukemia research that advances scientific knowledge and improves outcomes for patients. The role provides exposure to specialized laboratory techniques, research collaboration, and biospecimen management within a world-renowned academic medical center while supporting professional development, career growth, and work-life balance.

• 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.

• Maintain and organize leukemia banking samples and research biospecimens
• Process and store bone marrow and blood specimens in accordance with protocol requirements
• Coordinate with research nurses to obtain patient blood, bone marrow aspirates, and tumor samples
• Maintain accurate, detailed, and legible laboratory documentation
• Operate laboratory equipment used for biospecimen processing and storage
• Review scientific literature and confer with supervisors to update laboratory procedures
• Record and evaluate laboratory data as assigned
• Maintain attention to detail and alertness while handling research specimens
• Comply with institutional safety policies, including use of a biological safety cabinet
• Perform routine maintenance of ultra-low freezers and monitor liquid nitrogen, CO2, and water levels

• Perform bone marrow aspirate processing to produce mononuclear cells
• Complete serum extraction, DNA preparation, and RNA extraction procedures
• Maintain tissue culture cell lines using sterile laboratory techniques
• Observe cells under a microscope and assess cell morphology and condition
• Determine cell counts using a hemocytometer
• Perform small-volume pipetting tasks with precision and accuracy
• Independently obtain and process samples consistently and promptly
• Troubleshoot laboratory issues and seek guidance when appropriate

• Demonstrate a full understanding of assigned research projects and protocols
• Present project updates during weekly laboratory meetings
• Maintain organized handwritten and digital records of procedures and protocols
• Participate in SOP quality control reviews
• Perform biospecimen inventory checks to ensure accuracy and completeness