Senior Research Assistant - Experimental Radiation Oncology

Senior Research Assistant

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is a premier organization dedicated to cancer care, research, education, and prevention. Within the Experimental Radiation Oncology department, the Senior Research Assistant supports the laboratory operations of Dr. Junjie Chen, Chair of Experimental Radiation Oncology, while also providing support to the Associate Director, Laboratory Operations. The Senior Research Assistant coordinates and conducts experiments, supports laboratory infrastructure, and contributes to research activities that advance scientific understanding of cancer and related diseases.

UT MD Anderson fosters innovation through groundbreaking laboratory and translational research. The Senior Research Assistant plays a critical role in supporting research focused on DNA damage pathways, genomic instability, tumorigenesis, aging, and cell biology. Through scientific experimentation, laboratory coordination, and operational support, the Senior Research Assistant helps ensure the success of research programs while maintaining efficient laboratory operations. The Senior Research Assistant also serves as a key resource for researchers, faculty, students, and collaborators.

The ideal candidate will possess a Master's Degree in Basic Sciences or a Medical Degree, along with scientific or experimental research experience in a laboratory environment. Experience supporting molecular biology research, cell-based assays, tissue culture techniques, laboratory operations, and scientific collaboration is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to support research compliance and laboratory management activities.

Minimum $24.76/hour
- Midpoint $31.01/hour
- Maximum $37.26/hour

• 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.

• Coordinate and conduct experiments and research projects involving DNA damage pathways, molecular mechanisms of genomic instability and tumorigenesis, the mitotic checkpoint protein Chfr, and protein deacetylase SIRT1
• Construct, assemble, and operate laboratory apparatus and equipment
• Assist with experiments requiring knowledge of molecular biology, cell-based assays, and tissue culture techniques
• Record, maintain, and evaluate experimental data in accordance with requested methodologies
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of protocols and research findings

• Order centralized supplies and monitor laboratory expenses
• Communicate cost-effective purchasing alternatives
• Make buffers, media, solutions, and reagents for cell cultures
• Maintain and clean laboratory equipment
• Organize equipment repair procedures and preventive maintenance activities
• Maintain laboratory stock inventories
• Manage chemical inventories and safety records
• Refill reagents and support routine equipment needs
• Escort vendors and coordinate service appointments
• Provide general laboratory support as needed

• Organize and develop training programs for specialized laboratory procedures
• Help orient and train new staff and students
• Train new users on laboratory equipment and procedures
• Assist faculty with submission of MTAs, IBCs, IACUCs, and related research documentation
• Plan, assist, and guide laboratories in annual Environmental Health and Safety orientations
• Assist and collaborate on departmental initiatives involving Environmental Health and Safety compliance, Fire Safety, Emergency Contingency Planning, and related programs

• Develop relationships with internal and external collaborators to facilitate laboratory activities
• Promptly communicate and respond to faculty and researchers to improve efficiency and conserve resources
• Act as property controller for inventoried laboratory equipment
• Maintain and update equipment manuals and records in Teams EROPRO Lab Operations
• Resolve missing equipment…