Research Assistant I – Key/Hunt Lab

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.

The primary purpose of the Research Assistant I position is to provide technical assistance in carrying out various research projects. Conducts experiments and carries out research projects. Constructs, assembles and operates laboratory apparatus and equipment. Records and evaluates data in accordance with methods requested. Impacts laboratory research activities.

KEY FUNCTIONS/JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES

Research
-Assist principal investigator with scientific research projects.
-Apply technical skills to design and implement a variety of laboratory protocols and experiments. Experimental procedures include DNA/RNA extraction, cloning, PCR, qRT-PCR, protein analysis, cell culture, genotyping (technique and interpretation), basic histology analysis, drug-response assay, cell viability assay and animal breeding, assistant with mammary tumor implantation and mouse necropsy experimentation. Organize and prioritize daily laboratory tasks to fulfill established research aims. Must demonstrate independent working and reasoning abilities to resolve new experimental challenges.
-Evaluate research data and revise or develop new techniques to resolve work problems.

Record Keeping and Data Collection
-Maintain accurate, detailed records and experimental data and protocols.
-Prepare graphs, slides and tables via photography, computer, or manually.
-Communicate results to and understand instructions from principal investigator and colleagues. Fluent spoken English is essential.
-Discusses goals of each project with supervisor. Develop a step-by-step written procedure outlining the specific actions required to conduct the experiment before proceeding.
-Read literature and confer with supervisor regarding new procedures and modify them according to the needs of the project.

Tissue Culture
-Maintain and establish culture of human and murine cells, which require rigorous sterile techniques. Observe and identify cell changes under the microscope, determine cell counts and cell viability.
-Prepare sterile media and solutions.
-Purify cells by various methods and monitor cells for proliferation and activation by standard laboratory methods.
-Monitor supplies, order and store tissue culture supplies to ensure efficient functioning.
-Prepare cells for cryogenic storage and keep them organized and updated on the laboratory inventoried cell stock list.
-The above requires using the microscope for prolonged periods, working for prolonged periods with hands extended under a flow hood and lifting cases (

Laboratory Safety/Lab Equipment Maintenance
-Demonstrate and practice lab safety precautions.
-Receive verbal and/or written instructions from principal investigator on standards and specialized lab safety procedures.
-Attend annual safety courses required by MDA and other agencies. Handle, store, and dispose of radioactive isotopes, chemically hazardous materials, and bio hazardous materials in procedure specified to meet MDA safety guidelines.
-Follow manufacturer’s guidelines regarding the handling and maintenance of all lab equipment. Have working knowledge of equipment operation manuals and procedure manuals whenever necessary.
-Order reagents and materials when needed.
-Monitor work flow as it pertains to the need for supplies, equipment maintenance, and preparing stock solutions.

EDUCATION
Required: Bachelor’s degree with major course work one of the basic sciences.

EXPERIENCE
Required: None.
Preferred: Hands-on experience of working with mice preferred.

Bachelor’s degree, major course work in one of the basic sciences. No 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