Research Assistant I - Urology Research

The mission of The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center is to eliminate cancer in Texas, the nation, and the world through outstanding programs that integrate patient care, research and prevention, and through education for undergraduate and graduate students, trainees, professionals, employees and the public.

SUMMARY

The employee coordinates and conducts experiments and carries out research projects in basic science areas. Constructs, assembles and operates laboratory apparatus and equipment. Reads literature and confers with superiors regarding new procedures and modifies them according to the needs of the project. Records and evaluates data obtained in accordance with methods requested.

KEY FUNCTIONS

General Lab Maintenance

• Assume responsibility for general laboratory maintenance.
• Maintain procedures and protocols that ensure the quality and integrity of procedures performed.
• Maintain supplies, equipment maintenance and preparation of stock solutions.
• Maintain an excellent working knowledge of all basic laboratory equipment and apparatus.

• Conduct cell culture studies, including cell lines and organoid models.
• Conduct tissue-based experiments including immunohistochemistry analysis, microscopy analysis, IHC.
• Conduct flow cytometry analysis.
• Perform RNA extraction and sample preparation for NGS (genomic analysis).
• Communicate results or any potential problems to the primary investigator.

• Perform animal studies including injections (intravesical instillations), oral gavage, small surgery, collection of tissues on necropsy. Maintain colonies of animals as needed for experiments.

• Abstract data from the electronic medical records and collate them in a database. Maintain data security and integrity of procured data.

• Work closely with fellows and trainees in the laboratory.
• Read scientific literature to keep current with new research techniques and learn or develop new techniques by communicating with other researchers and biotechnology companies.
• Other duties as assigned.

WORKING CONDITIONS

This position requires:
Working in Office Environment: Yes
Working in Patient Care Unit (e.g. Nursing unit; outpatient clinic): No
Exposure to human/animal blood, body fluids, or tissues: Yes
Exposure to harmful chemicals: Yes
Exposure to radiation: No
Exposure to animals: Yes

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Indicate the time required to do each of the following physical demands:

Time Spent

Never

0%

Occasionally

1-33%

Frequently

34-66%

Continuously

67-100%

Standing

X

Walking

X

Sitting

X

Reaching

X

Lifting/Carrying

Up to 10 lbs

X

10lbs to 50 lbs

X

More than 50 lbs

X

Pushing/Pulling

Up to 10 lbs

X

10lbs to 50 lbs

X

More than 50 lbs

X

Use computer/keyboard

X

EDUCATION

Required: Bachelor's degree, major course work in one of the basic sciences.

Preferred: Masters' degree with major course work in one of the basic sciences.

EXPERIENCE

Required: No experience required.

Preferred: Cell culture skills, molecular biology, animal work experience.

It is the policy of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center to provide equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by institutional policy or by federal, state or local laws unless such distinction is required by law. http://www.mdanderson.org/about-us/legal-and-policy/legal-statements/eeo-affirmative-action.html