Research Assistant I - Lymphoma Myeloma

About the role

The Research Assistant I role supports critical biospecimen banking and laboratory operations within the Lymphoma & Myeloma department at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. The position contributes directly to ongoing cancer research initiatives by working with biological samples, laboratory equipment, and research staff to ensure high-quality specimen processing and data integrity. This role offers exposure to a wide range of molecular and cellular biology techniques in a collaborative research environment.

Responsibilities

• Biospecimen Banking & Sample Management
  • Support daily operations of myeloma biospecimen banking.
  • Receive research samples from assigned protocols.
  • Process research samples from assigned protocols.
  • Store research samples according to established procedures.
  • Interact with research nursing staff to obtain patient-derived samples.
  • Obtain blood specimens for research activities.
  • Obtain bone marrow aspirate (BMA) specimens for research activities.
  • Obtain tumor tissue specimens for research activities.
  • Maintain specimen integrity throughout collection, processing, and storage.
• Laboratory Operations
  • Operate laboratory equipment used for biospecimen processing.
  • Operate laboratory equipment used for specimen storage.
  • Maintain accurate laboratory records at all times.
  • Maintain detailed laboratory records at all times.
  • Maintain organized laboratory records at all times.
  • Follow established standard operating procedures (SOPs).
  • Demonstrate strong attention to detail during all laboratory activities.
  • Maintain consistent alertness while performing laboratory tasks.
• Molecular & Cellular Biology Techniques
  • Process bone marrow specimens in accordance with established SOPs.
  • Process other biological specimens in accordance with established SOPs.
  • Isolate peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs).
  • Isolate bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMNCs).
  • Perform serum extraction procedures.
  • Prepare DNA samples for research applications.
  • Perform RNA extraction in accordance with established SOPs.
• Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Preparation
  • Prepare samples for single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq).
  • Process bone marrow aspirates for scRNA-seq workflows.
  • Prepare single-cell suspensions for downstream analysis.
  • Perform GEM generation for sequencing preparation.
  • Conduct cDNA amplification according to established procedures.
• Documentation & Technical Support
  • Maintain accurate documentation of specimen processing activities.
  • Maintain detailed documentation of laboratory procedures.
  • Ensure compliance with research protocols and laboratory standards.
  • Demonstrate manual dexterity for precise pipetting techniques.
  • Utilize visual acuity to accurately handle small sample volumes.
  • Support research activities through proper biospecimen handling and processing.
  • Participate in comprehensive training to learn molecular and cellular biology techniques.
  • Gain exposure to a broad range of molecular and cellular laboratory methodologies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Basic Science.

Pay

Salary Range: $39,500 – $59,500

Schedule

Typical Work Schedule: Days

Work Location

Houston, TX

Benefits

• Employer-paid medical coverage starting day one for employees working 30+ hours/week.
• Optional group dental, vision, life, AD&D, and disability insurance.
• Accruals for paid time off (PTO) and Extended Illness Bank.
• Paid holidays.
• Wellness, childcare, and other leave options.
• Tuition Assistance Program after six months of service.
• Access to extensive wellness, fitness, and employee resource groups.
• Defined-benefit pension through the Teachers Retirement System.
• Voluntary retirement plans.
• Employer-paid life and reduced salary protection programs.