Research Assistant II - Mouse Handling

The Research Assistant II position in GU Radiation Oncology supports preclinical and translational research within the Division of Radiation Oncology at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. The Research Assistant II role provides responsible technical assistance across multiple research projects, with a strong emphasis on mouse colony management, in vivo and in vitro experimentation, data collection, and daily laboratory operations in support of investigator‑led studies.

The Research Assistant II position in GU Radiation Oncology supports preclinical and translational research within the Division of Radiation Oncology at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. The Research Assistant II role provides responsible technical assistance across multiple research projects, with a strong emphasis on mouse colony management, in vivo and in vitro experimentation, data collection, and daily laboratory operations in support of investigator‑led studies.

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is a leading institution focused on cancer care, research, education, and prevention. Within UT MD Anderson, the Research Assistant II position reports to Pr. Phuoc T. Tran, MD, PhD, and plays a key role in ensuring the efficient, compliant, and scientifically rigorous operation of the laboratory. The Research Assistant II position requires independent judgment, strong organizational skills, and frequent collaboration with laboratory and divisional colleagues to advance cancer research efforts.

The ideal candidate for the Research Assistant II position holds a bachelor's degree in a basic science discipline, has at least one year of scientific or experimental research experience, including hands‑on animal handling, and demonstrates technical proficiency in laboratory techniques, data documentation, and safety practices, with the ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a team‑based research environment.

Salary Range (Annual):
Minimum $45,000 - Midpoint $56,500 - Maximum $68,000

Hourly Equivalent (40‑hour work week):
Minimum $21.63 - Midpoint $27.16 - Maximum $32.69

The Research Assistant II role at UT MD Anderson offers the opportunity to contribute directly to innovative radiation oncology research that supports the institution's mission to eliminate cancer. This position provides hands‑on experience with advanced animal models, imaging technologies, molecular biology techniques, and multidisciplinary collaboration, supporting professional development for individuals pursuing long‑term careers in biomedical research while maintaining a stable and supportive work 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.

• Organize, manage, and maintain mouse colonies, including husbandry, genotyping, breeding, treatments, health monitoring, and tissue collection
• Conduct mouse experiments using various injection methods, imaging techniques, X‑ray irradiation, and therapeutic interventions
• Work with genetically engineered, immunocompromised, and wild‑type mouse models in compliance with approved protocols and SOPs

• Support daily laboratory operations, including preparation of common stock solutions and maintenance of general lab equipment
• Monitor, update, order, and verify quality of laboratory supplies and reagents to support research activities
• Implement and model laboratory safety practices, including appropriate PPE use and compliance with biohazard, chemical, and radiation safety…