Research Assistant II

Overview

The Epigenomics Profiling Core (Epi Core) is an institutional resource for epigenomics research that provides scientific expertise, advanced assays, and specialized equipment. The core supports investigations of DNA methylation, chromatin accessibility, and DNA-protein interactions, and facilitates studies of epigenetic mechanisms that regulate transcription in normal and disease conditions. The Dr. Marcos R. Estecio's Research Assistant II will provide experimental and technical support for ongoing DNA methylation projects.

The ideal candidate will have one to three years of experience in an academic or laboratory setting, be proficient in cell culture, molecular biology, biochemistry techniques, and Western blotting, and be able to work on several short-term projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.

Minimum salary: $45,000; midpoint: $56,500; maximum: $68,000.
Hourly breakdown (40-hour week):
Minimum $21.63;
Midpoint $27.16;
Maximum $32.69.

Work location:

Texas Medical Center. Typical work schedule:
Onsite.

This role directly contributes to MD Anderson's mission by supporting epigenomic research that advances understanding of cancer development. Team members gain exposure to cutting-edge molecular techniques, work with specialized instrumentation, and contribute to impactful scientific discovery while benefiting from a workplace that supports professional development 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.

Research Support

• Perform experimental tasks and provide technical support as part of a service core laboratory
• Perform duties in accordance with general and/or specific plans
• Assist in designing laboratory experiments, techniques, and protocols
• Process, organize, and summarize data using scientific, word processing, spreadsheet, or statistical software
• Prepare the laboratory for experiments and perform routine maintenance, including cleaning equipment and managing supplies
• Prepare stock solutions and reagents to support experimental workflows
• Collect and analyze data from experimental procedures and discuss findings with the supervisor
• Document results and maintain an organized laboratory notebook
• Prepare materials for submission to granting agencies and foundations

Expertise & Specialization

• Apply scientific background to laboratory techniques using judgment, analysis, and evaluation
• Review literature and collaborate with supervisor to implement or modify procedures
• Master complex laboratory techniques used in the Core
• Learn and perform basic and advanced molecular techniques

Laboratory Organization

• Coordinate procedures and assemble materials to support core laboratory operations
• Participate in ongoing learning and apply new knowledge to assignments
• Follow laboratory guidelines for order processing, rush orders, and special job handling

• Required:
  
  Bachelor’s degree with major coursework in one of the basic sciences
• Preferred:
  Master’s level degree with major coursework in one of the basic sciences

• Required:
  
  One year of experience in scientific or experimental research; no experience required with preferred degree
• Preferred:
  One to three years of experience in an academic or other laboratory setting. Proficiency in cell culture, molecular biology, biochemistry techniques, and Western blotting; ability to manage multiple short-term projects in a fast-paced environment.

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center offers excellent benefits, including medical, dental, paid time off, retirement, tuition benefits, educational opportunities, and recognition opportunities.

This position may be…