SummaryThe primary purpose of the Research Assistant II is to assist the principal investigator with scientific research projects. Functions in a separate and independent manner in the design and initiation of research experiments. Designs, develops or adapts equipment used in experiments or research to obtain desired results. Determines specific goals or objectives to be obtained, evaluates research data and develops and revises techniques or approaches to work problems. Plans training and research work activity for assigned laboratory and research personnel. Supervises the use of laboratory equipment and implements safety procedures. Complies, writes and submits project results to superiors.The Research Assistant II is expected to conduct both cell culture work and animal studies using many different types of models, including 2D, 3D culture systems, organoids, PDX, among others. In addition, it is expected that the Research Assistant II will gain expert level skills for various techniques required to address a scientific question, including imaging mass cytometry, scSeq, and other omics and downstream bioinformatic analysis in consultation with in-house computational scientists. The laboratory is working on novel approaches to combine advanced imaging platforms with new generation molecular biology techniques to create precision medicine treatments in interventional radiology.Mission StatementThe mission of The University of Texas MD 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 Interventional Radiology department has a long history of being on the cutting-edge of innovation in image-guided therapy translational research. Several of the most significant breakthroughs in minimally invasive interventions, such as the development of endovascular stents, wires, and inferior vena cava filters took place in our laboratory. The department emphasizes the training of students, postdoctoral fellows and clinical fellows in the fundamentals of tumor biology applied to local therapies to improve patient outcomes. The department has built a program with close ties to many clinical departments to facilitate information exchange between the laboratory and the clinic.Key Functions
Conducts various scientific/experimental procedures and analyses to include protein isolation from various tissues, western blot analysis, RNA isolation, northern blot analysis, DNA isolation and southern blot and PCR analysis. Perform quantitative analysis for various research protocols utilizing the appropriate equipment. Makes verbal and written recommendations and collaborates with researchers and interdivisional staff to improve protocols and research practices
Assists with design of molecular biology experiments in various animal models of liver cancer that include catheter-based drug delivery and ablation treatments, as well as tissue harvesting pre and post treatment as well as analysis of rat liver tissues by various techniques including flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and nucleic acid profiling (e.g. quantitative PCR).
Acquires images from paraffin embedded and frozen tissue sections to detect different cell populations using fluorescence microscopy. Additionally, captures images of tumor cells-subpopulations labeled with conventional fluorescent dyes by targeting specific cell surface markers in tumor models. Uses diverse spectrum of fluorescence imaging techniques.
Uses assays to assess the degree of gene amplification. Determines gene expression and investigates the involvement of additional possible pathways involved in the resistance to therapy. Uses a high coverage chip to study transcripts variation at the exon level as well as to determine the specific gene expression profiling associated with variations in the response to therapy. Uses Real-time PCR to further validate the array results.
Assists principal investigator and/or study collaborator in collection and evaluation of data from all research endeavors by retrieving and visually reading data from images produced during test procedures and from medical records. Uses optical sectioning and image reconstruction to improve correlation for in-vivo and ex-vivo findings. Conducts immunohistochemistry staining and interpretation of results.
Optimizing loco regional and systemic treatment techniques and imaging evaluation of response in solid orthotopic tumors.
Prepares manuscripts, scientific papers and reports based on research data; assists faculty in preparation of slides and visual presentations meeting deadlines in accordance with established formats and procedures. Attend meetings and may present, discuss and explain protocols and data.
Responsible for the maintenance and preservation of all protocol records and data in compliance with federal guidelines: responsible for the maintenance of departmental research databases in accordance with established protocols.
Responsible for ordering of Laboratory reagents and supplies and training of lab personnel on all aspects of project.
Other duties as assigned.
Required education: Bachelor's degree with major course works in one of the basic sciences.Required experience: 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.htmlAdditional Information
Requisition ID: 168490
Employment Status: Part-Time Benefits Eligible
Employee Status: Regular
Work Week: Days
Minimum Salary: US Dollar (USD) 43,500
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: No
Referral Bonus Available?: No
Relocation Assistance Available?: No
Science Jobs: No
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