Research Assistant II - GI Medical Oncology

Research Assistant II - GI Medical OncologyMISSION STATEMENTThe 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.SUMMARYThe primary purpose of the Research Assistant II position is to perform technical assistance and coordination skills in carrying out various research projects in the department of GI Medical Oncology. Coordinates and conducts experiments and carries out research projects in varied areas of chemistry, biology, and other biomedical, or related basic science areas. Constructs, assembles and operates laboratory apparatus and equipment. Reads literature and confers with superiors regarding new procedures and modifies them according to the needs of the project. Records and evaluates data obtained in accordance with methods requested.JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIESMolecular Techniques (40% Effort)Perform basic to intermediate molecular biology techniques such as DNA, RNA and protein extraction and measurement, DNA, RNA and protein gel electrophoresis (agarose and polyacrylamide), real-time quantitative RT-PCR, recombinant DNA cloning (transformation and mutagenesis) and computer analysis of DNA sequences and PCR and primer design, and library preparation.Work will also involve the use antibodies in various immunostaining techniques and other indirect immunofluorescence techniques such as for flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry.Tissue Culture (40% Effort)Maintain numerous established cell lines using standard tissue culture techniques including: plating cells, determining cell counts and cell viability, transient and stable transfections, proliferation and functional assays, freezing cell lines properly to assure cell viability and aid in maintaining an organized cell repository.Record keeping (20% Effort)Maintain accurate, detailed records of experimental data and protocols in accordance with methods requested. This involves the use of computers to analyze, organize and plot data and for entry of data into databases.CommunicationMust be able to understand and carry out instructions both verbal and written.Must be able to communicate results as well as any potential problems with experiments, in a clear and understandable manner to the supervisor and in lab meetings.Must be able to read articles and references and develop step-by-step written procedures to conduct experiments as well as communicate this information to the supervisor and other lab members.SafetyMust maintain a clean and orderly workplace.Must have the ability and willingness to observe and comply with all institutional rules and OSHA regulations regarding biohazard and radiation safety.Must have a working knowledge in the proper handling of hazardous chemicals such as phenol, ethidium bromide, acrylamide, and formamide.Must have a basic understanding of and willingness to work with radioisotopes.General requirementsWorking knowledge of various laboratory equipment and apparatusStandard radiographic techniques and basic techniques for handling chemicals and accurately prepare media, solutions, and reagents.An understanding of the basic scientific terminology and concepts central to cancer researchAbility to perform searches and retrieval of information both through the library and online.Willingness to learn new techniques, to cooperate with other staff, students, fellows, visitors, and collaborators, and to assist in other laboratory activities as needed.Other duties as assignedEducation Required - Bachelor'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.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.htmlPreferred Education: Master's degree with major course work in one of the basic sciences or Medical degree.Onsite Presence: On site is requiredAdditional Information

Requisition ID: 169401

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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