Research Assistant II - GI Medical Oncology

Work Location: Onsite Why Us? At UT MD Anderson, the Research Assistant II contributes directly to cancer research that improves patient outcomes and advances scientific understanding of colorectal cancer and immunotherapy. This role offers the opportunity to work alongside leading researchers, develop advanced laboratory and animal research skills, participate in impactful translational studies, and grow within a world-renowned academic research environment while benefiting from a comprehensive rewards package.

Responsibilities: The primary purpose of this position is to conduct research in the cancer biology of intestinal adenocarcinomas with an emphasis on colorectal cancer, patient-derived xenografts, mechanisms of treatment response and resistance, tumor immunology, immune cell interactions, and immune checkpoint therapy. Manage mouse colonies with minimal supervision Perform survival surgeries for implantation of patient-derived tumor fragments and cell lines Administer drug dosing through oral gavage, intraperitoneal, and subcutaneous techniques Measure tumor response using calipers and non-invasive imaging methods Analyze outcomes from efficacy studies Perform non-survival surgeries for specimen collection and molecular characterization Conduct necropsies and collect tumor, blood, bone marrow, spleen, and lymph node samples Extract immune cells from human tumors and mouse tissues Conduct cancer biology experiments according to approved research plans Support molecular characterization of colorectal cancer models Perform ex vivo treatment studies using collected specimens Utilize primary tumors, xenograft tumors, cell cultures, and animal models in research projects Study mechanisms of treatment response and resistance Investigate immune-related pathways involved in tumor and immune cell interactions Support research involving immune checkpoint therapies Maintain accurate and detailed mouse colony records, including PDX models Ensure timely entry of research and animal-related data Verify correct animal identification using ear tags Report identification discrepancies to the supervisor Properly label collected tissue samples Deposit specimens into designated storage locations Maintain accurate documentation of stored samples and research activities Analyze experimental data with minimal supervision Create plots and visual representations of research findings Utilize advanced Microsoft Excel skills for data analysis Use Adobe Photoshop for research-related image processing and presentation support Communicate experimental results and potential issues clearly to supervisors and laboratory personnel Present findings during laboratory meetings Review scientific literature and references to support research activities Develop written experimental procedures and protocols Prepare concise and accurate methods and results summaries Assist with training graduate students, fellows, and post-doctoral trainees when needed Maintain a clean and organized laboratory environment Follow institutional policies and OSHA requirements regarding biohazard and radiation safetyEDUCATION

Required: Bachelor's Degree Basic Science.

Preferred: Master's Degree Basic Science.

Preferred: Medical DegreeWORK EXPERIENCE

Required: One year Scientific or experimental research work experience or no experience required with preferred degree.