Research Assistant I - Experimental Research Oncology

Position Title: Research Assistant I

INTRODUCTION

The Research Assistant I position supports laboratory-based cancer research within Experimental Radiation Oncology at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. The Research Assistant I role is based in the laboratory of Dr. Mazur and focuses on advancing novel cancer therapies through next-generation animal models of lung, pancreatic, and stomach cancers. The Research Assistant I will contribute directly to ongoing preclinical studies that integrate animal modeling, therapeutic interventions, imaging, and tissue analysis.

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is a leading institution focused on cancer care, research, education, and prevention. As part of UT MD Anderson, the Research Assistant I will work in a highly collaborative scientific environment that values rigor, innovation, and translational impact. The Research Assistant I role requires strong technical ability, attention to detail, and the capacity to work closely with scientists, trainees, and support staff on a daily basis.

IDEAL CANDIDATE STATEMENT

The ideal candidate for the Research Assistant I position has an interest in biomedical or veterinary research, with some exposure to laboratory or animal-based work, and is motivated to pursue future graduate or veterinary education; hands-on experience with mice, basic laboratory techniques, data recording, and collaborative research environments is beneficial, though not required.

POSITION INFORMATION

Salary Range (Annual): Minimum $39,500 - Midpoint $49,500 - Maximum $59,500

Hourly Equivalent (40-hour work week): Minimum $18.99 - Midpoint $23.80 - Maximum $28.61

Why Us?

Working as a Research Assistant I at UT MD Anderson provides the opportunity to contribute to high-impact cancer research that directly supports the institution's mission to end cancer. This role offers hands-on experience with advanced animal models, imaging technologies, and translational research methods while supporting long-term career development in science, medicine, or veterinary fields within a collaborative and mission-driven 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.

Responsibilities

Animal Colony & Care

• Manage and maintain the laboratory mouse colony through breeding, weaning, ear-tagging, genotyping, and euthanasia
• Perform daily animal care, health monitoring, and welfare checks
• Administer injections and treatments in accordance with approved animal protocols

In Vivo Cancer Research

• Perform chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatments in mouse models of lung, pancreatic, and stomach cancer
• Support experimental design and execution of animal-based cancer studies
• Assist with coordination of ongoing in vivo research projects

Imaging & Tissue Analysis

• Perform animal model cancer imaging using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance and micro-Computed Tomography
• Prepare histological tumor samples, including microtome sectioning
• Conduct tissue staining procedures, including immunohistochemical staining

Data & Documentation

• Maintain accurate and detailed experimental records, including mouse colony records and research data
• Document protocols, procedures, and results in compliance with laboratory standards

Laboratory Operations

• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure proper functioning
• Manage lab stocks, chemical inventory, and safety documentation
• Provide general laboratory support as needed to ensure efficient operations

EDUCATION

Required: Bachelor's Degree Basic Science.

EXPERIENCE

Required: No experience is required

Preferred: Experience with laboratory animals. Must be willing to work with mice. Ability to work with animals including mice, ability to perform genotyping, injections, and euthanasia, ability to maintain accurate records, ability to interact effectively with multiple individuals on a daily basis, and ability to analyze data and contribute creatively to experimental design

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 recognition.

This position may be responsible for maintaining the security and integrity of critical infrastructure, as defined in Section 113.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code and therefore may require routine reviews and screening. The ability to satisfy and maintain all requirements necessary to ensure the continued security and integrity of such infrastructure is a condition of hire and continued employment.

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

Additional Information

• Requisition ID: 180670
• Employment Status: Full-Time
• Employee Status: Regular
• Work Week: Days
• Minimum Salary: US Dollar (USD) 39,500
• Midpoint Salary: US Dollar (USD) 49,500
• Maximum Salary : US Dollar (USD) 59,500
• FLSA: non-exempt and eligible for overtime pay
• Fund Type: Soft
• Work Location: Onsite
• Pivotal Position: Yes
• Referral Bonus Available?: Yes
• Relocation Assistance Available?: Yes

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