What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Research Assistant - Animal Handling - Thoracic Head and Neck Medical Oncology position at MD Anderson Cancer Center?
Senior Research Assistant - Thoracic Head and Neck Medical Oncology
MISSION STATEMENT
The 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.
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston is one of the world's most respected centers focused on cancer patient care, research, education, and prevention. It was named the nation's No. 1 hospital for cancer care in U.S. News & World Report’s 2022-2023 rankings. It is one of the nation's original three comprehensive cancer centers designated by the National Cancer Institute.
JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES
Routine Laboratory Procedures:
Learn and continuously improve laboratory techniques, becoming proficient in planning, executing, and troubleshooting these methods. Participate in adopting new techniques and acquiring skills to enhance research efforts. Demonstrate assertiveness and flexibility when approaching new techniques and responsibilities while utilizing strong work habits and time management. Remain alert and focused to avoid injury from chemicals and hazardous materials in the laboratory.
Tissue Culture:
Maintain and establish cultures of human and murine cells using rigorous sterile techniques. Observe and identify cell changes under a microscope, determine cell counts and viability. Prepare sterile media and solutions, purify cells by various methods, and monitor cells for proliferation and activation using standard laboratory methods. Prepare cells for cryogenic storage. This requires prolonged use of a microscope, extended periods of working with hands under a flow hood, and lifting cases weighing less than 50 lbs.
Work with Animals or Animal/Human Products:
Carry out experiments involving animals, animal, or human tissues, adhering to institutional and regulatory guidelines. Inject tumor cells into mice, monitor tumor growth with calipers, and administer drugs via IP injection, IV injection, or oral gavage. Maintain knowledge of safety concerns when working with animal/human tissues, and apply universal safety precautions at all times. Prepare human blood samples for CTC analysis, inoculation of CDX models, and other techniques. Extract DNA, RNA, and protein from patient biopsies.
Molecular and Cellular Biology:
Desired technical and theoretical experience includes:
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RNA/DNA isolation and RT-PCR
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Protein isolation, immunoprecipitation, and western-blot techniques
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Cell viability and proliferation assays
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Application of flow cytometry for apoptosis, cell cycle analysis, and immune marker analysis
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siRNA/shRNA knock-down experiments
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Immunohistochemistry
Record Keeping and Data Collection:
Maintain accurate and detailed records of experimental data and protocols. Prepare graphs, slides, and tables using photography, computer software, or manually. Effectively communicate results to and understand instructions from the principal investigator and colleagues. Fluent spoken and written English is essential. Discuss project goals with the supervisor and develop step-by-step written procedures outlining the required actions before proceeding with experiments. Review literature and consult with the supervisor regarding new procedures, modifying them as needed for the project. Present data when necessary and participate in lab meetings and departmental seminars.
Collaboration with Staff Members:
Maintain a positive working relationship with all laboratory members. Assist colleagues with ongoing experiments that have priority as designated by the principal investigator or senior scientists. Clearly communicate instructions, ideas, and procedures both verbally and in writing.
Other Duties:
Perform other duties as assigned.
Education Required - Bachelor's degree in one of the natural sciences or related field.
Experience Required - Three years of experience in scientific or experimental research work. With preferred degree, one year of required experience
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
