Research Assistant I - Leukemia
UT MD Anderson · Houston, TX
- On site
- Full-time
- $59,500 / year
- Houston, TX
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Subject: Interested in the Research Assistant I - Leukemia role at UT MD Anderson
Hi Avery — I came across the Research Assistant I - Leukemia opening and wanted to reach out directly. I've spent the last few years doing exactly this kind of work, and UT MD Anderson stood out because…
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Job highlights
- Support leukemia research with lab techniques.
- Perform tissue culture and molecular biology.
- Maintain lab equipment and supplies.
- Contribute to cancer research advancements.
- Develop technical laboratory skills.
About the role
Research Assistant I - Leukemia
The Research Assistant I position at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center supports laboratory-based research within the Leukemia department by performing tissue culture, molecular biology techniques, and routine laboratory maintenance. The Research Assistant I contributes to daily research operations that support ongoing studies and ensures laboratory processes are conducted safely, accurately, and efficiently.
The Research Assistant I role is part of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, a leading institution focused on cancer care, research, education, and prevention. The Research Assistant I works onsite and plays an important role in advancing scientific discovery through hands-on laboratory support and adherence to institutional standards.
The ideal candidate for the Research Assistant I role has foundational laboratory training or experience in tissue culture and molecular biology techniques, familiarity with standard laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow detailed protocols while maintaining a strong commitment to safety and quality. Experience working with RNA, DNA, protein analysis, and sterile techniques is beneficial, along with the ability to perform physical tasks required in a laboratory environment.
The hourly salary range for this position based on a 40-hour work week is Minimum $18.99 - Midpoint $23.80 - Maximum $28.61. The typical work schedule is days. The work location is onsite in the Leukemia department.
Why Us?
The Research Assistant I role offers the opportunity to contribute directly to impactful cancer research at UT MD Anderson while developing technical laboratory skills in a collaborative, mission-driven environment that supports professional growth and work-life balance. Employer-paid medical coverage starting day one for employees working 30+ hours/week, plus optional group dental, vision, life, AD&D, and disability insurance. Accruals for PTO and Extended Illness Bank, plus paid holidays, wellness, childcare, and other leave options. Tuition Assistance Program after six months of service and access to extensive wellness, fitness, and employee resource groups. Defined-benefit pension through the Teachers Retirement System, voluntary retirement plans, and employer-paid life and reduced salary protection programs.
Responsibilities
Tissue Culture
- Maintain and establish tissue culture cell lines using sterile techniques
- Observe and identify cell changes using microscopy
- Perform cell counts using a hemocytometer or Coulter counter
- Conduct colony counts and determine cell viability
- Prepare sterile media and laboratory solutions
- Monitor and shelve tissue culture supplies to support efficient laboratory operations
- Prepare cells for cryogenic storage and reestablishment using small vials, dry ice, and liquid nitrogen
Molecular Techniques
- Isolate, purify, and analyze RNA, DNA, and protein
- Perform hybridization, gel electrophoresis, autoradiography, and ECL staining
- Conduct PCR reactions, quantitative RT-PCR assays, and DNA sequencing
- Perform assays for signal transducing enzymes
- Purify and conjugate immunoglobulins
- Prepare solutions and buffers with precise ionic concentration and pH
- Apply basic training in the use and safety of radioisotopes
Laboratory Equipment and Maintenance
- Perform routine maintenance of ultra-low freezers, liquid nitrogen systems, and CO2 and water levels
- Maintain laboratory equipment including high-speed centrifuges, pH meters, and microfuges
- Manually operate and maintain laboratory equipment
- Read and follow equipment operation manuals and procedure manuals as needed
Additional Duties
- Perform other duties as assigned
EDUCATION
Required: Bachelor's Degree Basic Science.
Work Experience
Required: None
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center offers excellent benefits, including medical, dental, paid time off, retirement, tuition benefits, educational opportunities, and individual and team recognition.
This position may be responsible for maintaining the security and integrity of critical infrastructure, as defined in Section 113.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code and therefore may require routine reviews and screening. The ability to satisfy and maintain all requirements necessary to ensure the continued security and integrity of such infrastructure is a condition of hire and continued employment.
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
Key skills/competency
- Tissue Culture
- Molecular Biology
- Laboratory Maintenance
- RNA Isolation
- DNA Analysis
- Protein Analysis
- PCR
- Sterile Techniques
- Microscopy
- Laboratory Equipment
Skills & topics
- Research Assistant
- Leukemia Research
- Tissue Culture
- Molecular Biology
- Laboratory Techniques
- Cancer Research
- RNA Analysis
- DNA Analysis
- Protein Analysis
- PCR
- Bachelor's Degree
- Basic Science
- Laboratory Maintenance
- Sterile Techniques
- UT MD Anderson
- Houston
- Texas
How to get hired
- Tailor your resume: Highlight your Bachelor's Degree in Basic Science and any laboratory experience, especially in tissue culture and molecular biology techniques. Quantify achievements where possible to showcase your impact as a Research Assistant.
- Address requirements directly: Ensure your application clearly demonstrates your familiarity with standard laboratory equipment, ability to follow protocols, and commitment to safety. Mention experience with RNA, DNA, protein analysis, and sterile techniques if applicable.
- Showcase attention to detail: During interviews, emphasize your meticulous nature and ability to perform routine maintenance and precise preparation of solutions. Provide examples of how you've maintained accuracy and efficiency in previous roles.
- Research UT MD Anderson's mission: Understand their commitment to cancer research, education, and prevention. Align your motivations with their goals and express your desire to contribute to their mission as a Research Assistant.
Technical preparation
Behavioral questions
Frequently asked questions
- What are the key responsibilities for a Research Assistant in the Leukemia department at UT MD Anderson?
- As a Research Assistant I in the Leukemia department at UT MD Anderson, you will be responsible for supporting laboratory research through performing tissue culture, executing molecular biology techniques, and maintaining laboratory equipment. This includes tasks like cell line maintenance, RNA/DNA/protein analysis, PCR, and ensuring laboratory safety and efficiency.
- What qualifications are required for the Research Assistant I role at UT MD Anderson?
- The required qualification for this Research Assistant I position is a Bachelor's Degree in Basic Science. While no prior work experience is explicitly required, foundational laboratory training or experience in tissue culture and molecular biology techniques is highly beneficial. Familiarity with standard laboratory equipment and a strong commitment to safety and quality are also important.
- What is the salary range for a Research Assistant I at UT MD Anderson?
- The hourly salary range for the Research Assistant I position at UT MD Anderson is between $18.99 and $28.61, with a midpoint of $23.80. This is based on a 40-hour work week. The annual salary range is approximately $39,500 to $59,500.
- Does UT MD Anderson offer benefits for Research Assistant positions?
- Yes, UT MD Anderson offers excellent benefits. These include employer-paid medical coverage starting day one for eligible employees, optional dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, PTO accruals, paid holidays, tuition assistance, wellness programs, and a defined-benefit pension plan.
- What is the work arrangement for the Research Assistant I role at UT MD Anderson?
- The Research Assistant I position is an onsite role, meaning you will be working directly at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center campus within the Leukemia department. The typical work schedule is days, which may include weekends.
- What molecular biology techniques are commonly used in this Research Assistant role?
- In this Research Assistant role, you can expect to utilize various molecular biology techniques such as RNA, DNA, and protein isolation and analysis, PCR, quantitative RT-PCR assays, DNA sequencing, hybridization, gel electrophoresis, and autoradiography. Basic training in the use of radioisotopes may also be involved.
- How can I best prepare my application for the Research Assistant I position at UT MD Anderson?