Research Assistant I

About the Role

The Research Assistant I position supports laboratory-based cancer research within Experimental Radiation Oncology at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. This role 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.

Key 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.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Education:
• Bachelor's Degree in Basic Science.
• Technical Skills:
• Ability to work with animals including mice.
• Ability to perform genotyping.
• Ability to perform injections.
• Ability to perform euthanasia.
• Ability to maintain accurate records.
• Ability to analyze data.
• Interpersonal Skills:
• Ability to interact effectively with multiple individuals on a daily basis.
• Capacity to work closely with scientists, trainees, and support staff.
• Other:
• Interest in biomedical or veterinary research.
• Some exposure to laboratory or animal-based work is beneficial.
• Motivated to pursue future graduate or veterinary education is beneficial.
• Hands-on experience with mice is beneficial.
• Hands-on experience with basic laboratory techniques is beneficial.
• Hands-on experience with collaborative research environments is beneficial.
• Willingness to work with mice.
• Capacity to contribute creatively to experimental design.

Qualifications

No experience is required.

Preferred: Experience with laboratory animals.