Research Assistant II - Cancer Biology

The primary purpose of the Research Assistant II is to coordinate and conduct experiments and carry out research projects in varied areas of biology, genetics and other biomedical or related basic science areas.

Dr. Gottlieb's research group combines metabolomics and genetic approaches to identify metabolic pathways essential for disease progression with the aim of developing novel therapeutic strategies. One of the main research approaches is tracing specific nutrients in vitro and in vivo to discover how the disease changes their metabolic fate. We perform in-depth mechanistic analyses in preclinical models and translate the acquired knowledge into clinically relevant insights.

We are looking for a research-driven new team member who will support our research projects by conducting experiments with animal models and primary cell culture. We will provide training and support for the new techniques. Inquisitive mind, willingness to learn new methods, responsibility and meticulously are expected.

Skills include independently perform animal studies including but not limited to the following technical skills: IP injections, oral gavage drug delivery, sample preparations for sequencing or other pathological analyses, histology, subcutaneous cell injections, survival surgical procedures, tissue harvesting and processing, as well as genotyping, breeding, and maintain mouse colonies. Proficiency with standard molecular biology techniques and tissue cell culture preferred. The position requires independent decision making, judgment and excellent organizational skills, and most of all, a desire and willingness to continue to learn new skills and techniques for this preferably long-term position.

CANCER BIOLOGY

KEY FUNCTIONS

Lab and Animal Studies
  • Perform standard animal procedures (injections, oral gavage, blood sampling, weight monitoring, tumor size measurement, etc.).
  • Surgical procedures (tissue or cell implantation, liver perfusion, vein infusions, etc.).
  • Participates in adopting new techniques and learning new skills to enhance research efforts.
  • Performing laboratory studies using complex techniques including maintenance of cell lines, metabolite extraction, and basic molecular biology techniques are an advantage (DNA, RNA, proteins, PCR, Western blotting, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry).
  • Performing animal studies including in surgeries, genotyping, injecting tumor cells, monitoring and recording progress of experiments, dosing animals with drugs, animal imaging, necropsy, preparation of tissue samples for histological processing.
  • Animals include rats as well as "nude" and conventional mice.

Laboratory Organization and Monitoring
  • Performs regular monitoring of safety standards in the laboratory, maintains accurate, detailed records and experimental data and protocols.
  • Assist with lab routine maintenance as needed

Other duties as assigned

EDUCATION

Required:Bachelor's degree with major course works in one of the basic sciences.

Preferred: Master's degree with major course works in one of the basic sciences.

EXPERIENCE

Required: One year experience in scientific or experimental research work. No experience required with preferred degree.

Preferred: One year of mouse handling experience; Rat handling experience, knowledge of cell culture and basic molecular biology methods.

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: 170725
  • Employment Status: Full-Time
  • Employee Status: Regular
  • Work Week: Days
  • Minimum Salary: US Dollar (USD) 44,000
  • Midpoint Salary: US Dollar (USD) 54,500
  • Maximum Salary : US Dollar (USD) 65,500
  • FLSA: exempt and not eligible for overtime pay
  • Fund Type: Soft
  • Work Location: Onsite
  • Pivotal Position: Yes
  • Referral Bonus Available?: No
  • Relocation Assistance Available?: Yes
  • Science Jobs: Yes

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