Research Assistant I - Experimental Research Oncology

Position Title: Research Assistant I

INTRODUCTION

The Research Assistant I position supports laboratory-based cancer research within Experimental Radiation Oncology at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. The Research Assistant I role is based in the laboratory of Dr. Mazur and focuses on advancing novel cancer therapies through next-generation animal models of lung, pancreatic, and stomach cancers. The Research Assistant I will contribute directly to ongoing preclinical studies that integrate animal modeling, therapeutic interventions, imaging, and tissue analysis.

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is a leading institution focused on cancer care, research, education, and prevention. As part of UT MD Anderson, the Research Assistant I will work in a highly collaborative scientific environment that values rigor, innovation, and translational impact. The Research Assistant I role requires strong technical ability, attention to detail, and the capacity to work closely with scientists, trainees, and support staff on a daily basis.

IDEAL CANDIDATE STATEMENT

The ideal candidate for the Research Assistant I position has an interest in biomedical or veterinary research, with some exposure to laboratory or animal-based work, and is motivated to pursue future graduate or veterinary education; hands-on experience with mice, basic laboratory techniques, data recording, and collaborative research environments is beneficial, though not required.

• POSITION INFORMATION
• Salary Range (Annual): Minimum $39,500 - Midpoint $49,500 - Maximum $59,500
• Hourly Equivalent (40-hour work week): Minimum $18.99 - Midpoint $23.80 - Maximum $28.61

Why Us?

Working as a Research Assistant I at UT MD Anderson provides the opportunity to contribute to high-impact cancer research that directly supports the institution's mission to end cancer. This role offers hands-on experience with advanced animal models, imaging technologies, and translational research methods while supporting long-term career development in science, medicine, or veterinary fields within a collaborative and mission-driven environment.

• 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

• Animal Colony & Care
• Manage and maintain the laboratory mouse colony through breeding, weaning, ear-tagging, genotyping, and euthanasia
• Perform daily animal care, health monitoring, and welfare checks
• Administer injections and treatments in accordance with approved animal protocols
• In Vivo Cancer Research
• Perform chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatments in mouse models of lung, pancreatic, and stomach cancer
• Support experimental design and execution of animal-based cancer studies
• Assist with coordination of ongoing in vivo research projects
• Imaging & Tissue Analysis
• Perform animal model cancer imaging using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance and micro-Computed Tomography
• Prepare histological tumor samples, including microtome sectioning
• Conduct tissue staining procedures, including immunohistochemical staining
• Data & Documentation
• Maintain accurate and detailed experimental records, including mouse colony records and research data
• Document protocols, procedures, and results in compliance with laboratory standards
• Laboratory Operations
• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure proper functioning
• Manage lab stocks, chemical inventory, and safety documentation
• Provide general laboratory support as needed to ensure efficient operations
• EDUCATION
• Required: Bachelor's Degree Basic Science.
• EXPERIENCE
• Required: No experience is required
• Preferred: Experience with laboratory animals. Must be willing to work with mice. Ability to work with animals including mice, ability to perform genotyping, injections, and euthanasia, ability to maintain accurate records, ability to interact effectively with multiple individuals on a daily basis, and ability to analyze data and contribute creatively to experimental design
• The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center offers excellent