Research Assistant II Genomic Medicine Mouse Facility

UT MD Anderson is a leading institution focused on cancer care, research, education, and prevention. The Research Assistant II provides technical and coordination support for a variety of research projects and plays a vital role in maintaining high-volume transgenic mouse colonies. This position contributes to laboratory operations by supporting animal care, data collection, regulatory compliance, and research activities in a collaborative research environment.

About the role

The Research Assistant II supports animal colony management, laboratory organization, and the accurate documentation of research activities, directly impacting the success and efficiency of laboratory research programs. The ideal candidate will be highly motivated, reliable, responsible, detail-oriented, well organized, and skilled in maintaining accurate records while communicating effectively within a collaborative and interdisciplinary team environment.

This role offers the opportunity to support groundbreaking cancer research through hands-on laboratory and animal research activities, providing valuable experience in research operations, animal colony management, regulatory compliance, and scientific collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Animal Care & Colony Management
  • Coordinate and perform daily animal care activities for transgenic mice colonies
  • Monitor animal health and perform health flagging activities
  • Perform routine husbandry procedures, including weaning, toe docking, tail docking, and preparation of doxycycline water
  • Ensure correct animal identification is maintained and report discrepancies to the supervisor
• Equipment Monitoring & Facility Operations
  • Monitor ventilated cage rack systems to ensure proper operation
  • Monitor automated drinking water systems and verify functionality
  • Report equipment alarms, malfunctions, and operational issues to the supervisor immediately
  • Ensure cleanliness and sanitation of animal housing areas and related support spaces
• Documentation & Data Management
  • Record animal care and research-related data in appropriate hardcopy and electronic systems
  • Ensure timely and accurate data entry and record maintenance
  • Maintain organized and accurate documentation to support laboratory operations
• Laboratory Support & Inventory
  • Assist with laboratory ordering and procurement activities
  • Organize laboratory supplies and work areas
  • Maintain adequate inventory levels and ensure supplies remain stocked
  • Support daily laboratory organization and operational efficiency
• Compliance & Team Support
  • Assist the supervisor with maintaining compliance with federal and UT MD Anderson safety requirements
  • Maintain a clean and safe work environment
  • Collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary research team
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Working Conditions

• Working in office environment
• Working in patient care unit (e.g., nursing unit; outpatient clinic)
• Exposure to human/animal blood, body fluids, or tissues
• Exposure to animals

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Basic Science (required)
• Master’s Degree in Basic Science or Medical Degree (preferred)
• One year of scientific or experimental research work experience (required; no experience required with preferred degree)
• Experience working with mice (preferred)
• Highly motivated, reliable, responsible, and well organized
• Careful record keeper with strong attention to detail
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work well in a collaborative and interdisciplinary team environment

Benefits

• Employer-paid medical coverage starting day one for employees working 30+ hours/week
• Optional group dental, vision, life, AD&D, and disability insurance
• Paid time off (PTO) and Extended Illness Bank accruals
• 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

Pay

Minimum Salary: $45,000 USD
Midpoint Salary: $56,500 USD
Maximum Salary: $68,000 USD

FLSA: Exempt and not eligible for overtime pay
Work Week: Days
Work Location: Onsite