Research Assistant II Immunotherapy Platform

UT MD Anderson is a leading institution focused on cancer care, research, education, and prevention. Within the [Department information not provided], the [Position Title Not Provided] supports critical laboratory and clinical research activities associated with the Immunotherapy Platform, contributing to translational research and clinical trial operations.

This position is responsible for applying technical expertise and experience to plan and carry out laboratory and/or clinical research projects for the Immunotherapy Platform (IMT). Will perform under the supervision of the research project manager of the IMT on processing, isolating, growing, and characterizing the phenotype and function of leucocytes from patients taking part in clinical trials carried out at UT MD Anderson.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with the types of assays routinely performed in the lab. At a minimum, they should have a strong foundation in basic molecular biology techniques, including RNA and DNA isolation, nucleic acid quantification and quality assessment, PCR, general sample processing, and cell culture techniques. While experience in human T-cell and B-cell immunology would be ideal, candidates with closely related research experience are also encouraged to apply, particularly those who have demonstrated proficiency in cell culture and molecular biology techniques and are eager to learn and contribute to our immune monitoring assays.

The successful candidate will bring a strong technical foundation, a willingness to learn, and the ability to quickly adapt to new laboratory methods and technologies.

• 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.

• Collect tissue samples from UT MD Anderson north campus and process blood samples using Ficoll gradient methods
• Process tumor samples through enzymatic digestion procedures
• Prepare cells for immediate laboratory analysis
• Prepare cells for cryogenic storage and future analysis
• Maintain cell cultures for research assays
• Observe and identify cellular changes using microscopy techniques
• Determine cell counts and assess cell viability for research applications

• Perform multi-omic immune monitoring assays on clinical specimens
• Conduct 10x single-cell sequencing assays
• Perform Visium/Cytassist assays
• Conduct Bruker Nanostring Cos Mx and Geo Mx assays
• Perform Nanostring assays, nucleic acid purification, CyTOF analyses, ELISPOT assays, and multiplex cytokine/chemokine assays
• Prepare sequencing libraries, pool libraries, and submit samples to the Genomics Core with associated probe information
• Prepare sterile media, stock solutions, and laboratory reagents
• Perform lymphocyte staining and flow cytometry phenotyping
• Apply safety procedures when working with human samples, chemicals, hazardous materials, and laboratory glassware
• Participate in meetings, assist with organization of scientific discussions, and present data as required

• Operate basic laboratory equipment according to established procedures
• Assist with CyTOF antibody conjugation activities
• Perform titration of metal-conjugated antibodies
• Stain and run samples using the Helios platform when needed
• Coordinate shipping and receiving of biological specimens in accordance with government compliance regulations

• Maintain productive working relationships with laboratory team members
• Explain current scientific protocols to staff members as needed
• Assist in training new laboratory personnel
• Utilize and maintain laboratory equipment
• Work late hours and weekends as operational needs require
• Maintain an organized, current, and legible laboratory journal documenting experimental activities
• Monitor laboratory inventory and maintain adequate stock levels of supplies
• Perform other duties as assigned

Required:

Bachelor's degree with major course works in one of the basic sciences.

Preferred:
Master's Degree Basic Science.

Required:

Two years' experience in scientific or experimental research work. No experience required with preferred degree.

Preferred:
Experienced in immunology-based research environments, specializing in human T-cell and B-cell studies, with a strong foundation in molecular biology and associated laboratory techniques.

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center offers excellent benefits, including medical, dental, paid time off, retirement, tuition benefits, educational opportunities, and individual and team…