Research Scientist

The Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics conducts broad Phase1 studies across disease boundaries and molecular targets. We strive to provide outstanding patient care while performing innovative Phase1 trials with new drugs that may eventually improve the management of cancer.

The Research Scientist will play a key role in advancing translational cancer research by planning, coordinating, and leading research activities that support the development of personalized therapies for patients with advanced cancer. Working closely with the Principal Investigator, this role involves designing and executing research studies, analyzing data, processing patient samples, and contributing to high-quality scientific publications. Our lab specializes in patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models and molecular analysis to identify more effective, personalized cancer treatments.

Candidates should have hands‑on experience with all aspects of in‑vivo small animal studies and understand how PDX models and molecular profiling support translational cancer research. Additional responsibilities include managing in‑vivo supply orders, developing and maintaining IACUC protocols, and providing guidance and supervision to junior PDX team members. Successful candidates will have demonstrated experience leading in‑vivo studies from planning and execution through data analysis and final reporting.

• Minimum: $32.93
• Midpoint: $41.11
• Maximum: $49.28
• Schedule: Hybrid
• Location: Texas Medical Center

• 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.

• Plan, organize, direct, and participate in experiments and assays related to patient sample processing.
• Perform technical research activities aligned with projects and grants led by the principal investigator.
• Determine and establish research goals and objectives.
• Plan and execute procedures in cell biology and biochemistry including tissue culture, PCR, western blot, and flow cytometry.
• Conduct in‑vivo studies, including full project execution from planning to reporting.
• Lead small animal testing, including placement and tracking of animal orders.
• Troubleshoot experimental challenges to ensure project success.
• Modify experimental procedures based on findings and literature review.

• Process blood samples within two hours of receipt.
• Process, store, catalog, and analyze patient samples using biomarker assays such as ELISA.
• Provide laboratory services including tissue culture and sample processing.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and perform routine maintenance.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols for chemicals and hazardous materials.
• Manage laboratory inventory including biologics and supplies.
• Coordinate ordering of research materials and monitor supply levels.
• Maintain safety reports including chemical and radionuclide documentation.

• Oversee personnel involved in research projects and monitor workflow.
• Assign, review, and evaluate work of laboratory staff.
• Interview and assist in hiring laboratory personnel.
• Train and supervise technicians in laboratory techniques, equipment use, and safety procedures.
• Collaborate with other laboratories and research teams.
• Communicate experimental design and results to investigators and research staff.
• Supervise junior PDX team members and support project coordination.

• Maintain detailed and organized laboratory journals and ensure team compliance.
• Monitor data quality, reproducibility, and research integrity.
• Analyze data using microscopy and image analysis systems.
• Interpret experimental results and adjust methodologies as…