Senior Research Assistant
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is a premier organization dedicated to cancer care, research, education, and prevention. Within the Experimental Radiation Oncology department, the Senior Research Assistant supports the laboratory operations of Dr. Junjie Chen, Chair of Experimental Radiation Oncology, while also providing support to the Associate Director, Laboratory Operations. The Senior Research Assistant coordinates and conducts experiments, supports laboratory infrastructure, and contributes to research activities that advance scientific understanding of cancer and related diseases.
UT MD Anderson fosters innovation through groundbreaking laboratory and translational research. The Senior Research Assistant plays a critical role in supporting research focused on DNA damage pathways, genomic instability, tumorigenesis, aging, and cell biology. Through scientific experimentation, laboratory coordination, and operational support, the Senior Research Assistant helps ensure the success of research programs while maintaining efficient laboratory operations. The Senior Research Assistant also serves as a key resource for researchers, faculty, students, and collaborators.
The ideal candidate will possess a Master's Degree in Basic Sciences or a Medical Degree, along with scientific or experimental research experience in a laboratory environment. Experience supporting molecular biology research, cell-based assays, tissue culture techniques, laboratory operations, and scientific collaboration is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to support research compliance and laboratory management activities.
Minimum $24.76/hour - Midpoint $31.01/hour - Maximum $37.26/hour
Why Us?
UT MD Anderson offers the opportunity to contribute directly to innovative cancer research while supporting a collaborative scientific environment. This role combines hands-on laboratory research, operational leadership, compliance support, and scientific collaboration, providing meaningful career development opportunities in a world-class research setting while supporting work-life balance and professional growth.
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
Research Operations & Experimental Support - Coordinate and conduct experiments and research projects involving DNA damage pathways, molecular mechanisms of genomic instability and tumorigenesis, the mitotic checkpoint protein Chfr, and protein deacetylase SIRT1 - Construct, assemble, and operate laboratory apparatus and equipment - Assist with experiments requiring knowledge of molecular biology, cell-based assays, and tissue culture techniques - Record, maintain, and evaluate experimental data in accordance with requested methodologies - Maintain accurate and detailed records of protocols and research findings - Compile, prepare, write, and submit work reports to the supervisor - Read scientific literature, discuss new methodologies with leadership, and adapt procedures to project needs - Attend departmental and scientific seminars to remain informed of developments in relevant fields
Laboratory Management & Maintenance - Order centralized supplies and monitor laboratory expenses - Communicate cost-effective purchasing alternatives - Make buffers, media, solutions, and reagents for cell cultures - Maintain and clean laboratory equipment - Organize equipment repair procedures and preventive maintenance activities - Maintain laboratory stock inventories - Manage chemical inventories and safety records - Refill reagents and support routine equipment needs - Escort vendors and coordinate service appointments - Provide general laboratory support as needed
Training, Compliance & Research Support - Organize and develop training programs for specialized laboratory procedures - Help orient and train new staff and students - Train new users on laboratory equipment and procedures - Assist faculty with submission of MTAs, IBCs, IACUCs, and related research documentation - Plan, assist, and guide laboratories in annual Environmental Health and Safety orientations - Assist and collaborate on departmental initiatives involving Environmental Health and Safety compliance, Fire Safety, Emergency Contingency Planning, and related programs
Laboratory Operations & Collaboration - Develop relationships with internal and external collaborators to facilitate laboratory activities - Promptly communicate and respond to faculty and researchers to improve efficiency and conserve resources - Act as property controller for inventoried laboratory equipment - Maintain and update equipment manuals and records in Teams EROPRO Lab Operations - Resolve missing equipment issues and maintain inventory records - Serve as liaison between Research Facilities, Information Systems, and laboratory stakeholders - Report facilities-related issues and provide follow-up support - Initiate and complete work request forms for changes or repairs -Provide cost estimates to Principal Investigators for requested work
Continuous Improvement - Anticipate operational and laboratory issues - Troubleshoot problems and develop creative workflow solutions - Support departmental laboratory initiatives and operational goals - Perform other duties as assigned
EDUCATION
Required: Bachelor's Degree Natural sciences or related field.
Preferred: Master's Degree Basic sciences.
Preferred: Medical Degree
WORK EXPERIENCE
Required: 3 years Scientific or experimental research work experience. or
Required: 1 year Required experience with preferred degree.
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center offers excellent https://www.utsystem.edu/offices/employee-benefits/ut-retirement-program/voluntary-retirement-programs, 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: 183131
Employment Status: Full-Time
Employee Status: Regular
Work Week: Days
Minimum Salary: US Dollar (USD) 51,500
Midpoint Salary: US Dollar (USD) 64,500
Maximum Salary : US Dollar (USD) 77,500
FLSA: exempt and not eligible for overtime pay
Fund Type: Soft
Work Location: Onsite
Pivotal Position: Yes
Referral Bonus Available?: Yes
Relocation Assistance Available?: Yes
LI-Onsite
