Research Assistant I

About the Role

UT MD Anderson is seeking a Research Assistant I to provide technical support for laboratory research in cellular and membrane biology related to cancer and immunity. The Research Assistant I will work under the supervision of the Principal Investigator and senior laboratory personnel to support laboratory studies, data collection, animal research activities, and routine laboratory operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain mammalian cell lines and primary cell cultures using aseptic technique.
• Prepare media, buffers, and laboratory reagents for research studies.
• Perform cell thawing, passaging, counting, seeding, and cryopreservation procedures.
• Conduct experimental treatments and sample collection activities.
• Monitor culture quality and laboratory standards.
• Assist with cell-based assays, protocol optimization, and troubleshooting under supervision.
• Prepare live and fixed samples for imaging studies.
• Label samples using fluorescent probes, dyes, and antibodies.
• Perform fluorescence microscopy and other image-based experiments following established protocols.
• Maintain complete image acquisition records and sample documentation.
• Perform basic image processing and quantitative analysis using approved workflows.
• Assist with operation and routine maintenance of imaging equipment.
• Assist with approved mouse studies following institutional training and authorization requirements.
• Support animal research activities in accordance with IACUC protocols and laboratory procedures.
• Perform colony maintenance and animal identification tasks.
• Assist with genotyping, monitoring, experimental procedures, measurements, and tissue collection.
• Maintain accurate animal and study records.
• Report animal health or welfare concerns promptly.
• Maintain complete and accurate records of experimental procedures, samples, and results.
• Organize raw data and associated research information.
• Perform basic calculations and data summaries.
• Communicate experimental progress, challenges, and results to the Principal Investigator and senior laboratory personnel.
• Maintain appropriate sample labeling and traceability.
• Support general laboratory maintenance activities.
• Prepare common laboratory solutions.
• Monitor laboratory supplies and inventories.
• Assist with ordering activities and inventory management.
• Maintain clean, organized, and orderly laboratory work areas.
• Use laboratory equipment properly and report equipment or supply needs.
• Comply with institutional requirements related to biosafety, chemical safety, animal welfare, and personal protective equipment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Bachelor's Degree in Natural Science or Applied Science in a research-related discipline.
• Mammalian cell culture
• Aseptic technique
• Fluorescence microscopy
• Mouse handling
• Flow cytometry
• Basic image or data analysis

Qualifications

• Willingness to assist with mouse studies.