Job Description

Research Assistant II

Job Responsibilities

Conducts research experiments and projects. Collects and processes human specimen samples, conducts experiments and research projects in scientific fields under the supervision of faculty, educational or classified research staff. Performs basic molecular biologic techniques including blood procuring, DNA extraction, PCR, real-time PCR, genotyping, cell culture, and mutation assay extraction and purification of RNA and DNA, PCR and RT-PCR procedures, cytogenetic experiments, sample storage and other molecular work as required. Requires basic knowledge and techniques to conduct various experiments in molecular and cell biology. An essential requirement for the job is experience in noncoding RNAs, HPV, tissue/cell culture, and real time PCR techniques, with the ability to culture/maintain different cancer cell lines. Other experience (but not required) is to subclone DNA expression plasmid and to carry out mutagenesis experiments. Also critical is knowledge of protein overexpression, basic protein purification and analysis techniques (e.g. Western blotting, etc.). In addition, prefer to be able to carry out laser capture microdissection, in-situ hybridization, reverse transcription, and Southern and Northern blotting.

Operates laboratory apparatus and equipment. Recommends replacement or purchase of new equipment. Equipment monitoring on a daily basis verifying correct temperatures and maintenance of all equipment including freezers, refrigerators, incubators, etc. Maintains proper function of laboratory as related to safety and regulatory
guidelines. Ensures that laboratories are prepared for inspection. Performs Quarterly lab inspection. Maintains all safety precautions, maintain all lab safety records and assure that safety procedures are implemented by all lab personnel, especially in the use of hazardous chemicals. Assumes responsibility for training lab personnel in routine safety practices. Reviews and makes recommendations for purchasing based on anticipated work-load. Monitors work flow as it pertains to the need for supplies including ordering of all supplies, and stock solutions. Keep ample stock of supplies on hand. Responsible for ordering laboratory supplies and maintenance of facilities. Know the procedure for obtaining repair or maintenance for lab equipment. Prepare stock solutions. Perform routine laboratory maintenance duties, such as cleaning.

Collection and Processing of Human Samples Provides assistance in the collection and processing of human samples, including tissue and blood. Requests and collects biological samples within the institution and delivers to laboratory for processing. Collects and processes human specimen samples. Coordinates and conducts experiments and carries out research projects in basic molecular and cell biology, noncoding RNAs, HPV, and immunology in head and neck cancer. Techniques to include culturing and handling of human cancer cell lines, basic protein chemistry including RT-PCR, electrophoresis, immunoblotting, and immunoprecipitation. Immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry and image analysis. 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. Attend weekly lab meetings and literature review/journal club every two weeks. Required to record and maintain a central repository of all molecular biology reagents and biospecimens. Accurately label all samples

Education Required: Bachelor's degree with major course works in one of the basic sciences.

Experience Required: Two years 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.html

Additional Information
* Requisition ID: 138055
* Employment Status: Full-Time
* Employee Status: Regular
* FLSA: exempt and not eligible for overtime pay
* Work Week: Days
* Fund Type: Soft
* Pivotal Position: Yes
* Minimum Salary: US Dollar (USD) 36,000
* Midpoint Salary: US Dollar (USD) 44,500
* Maximum Salary : US Dollar (USD) 54,000
* Science Jobs: No