Research Investigator - Thoracic Head and Neck Medical Oncology

Within the Thoracic Head & Neck Department, the Research Investigator supports innovative translational and laboratory-based research focused on advancing scientific knowledge and improving outcomes for patients with cancer. This role applies advanced technical expertise to design, perform, troubleshoot, and optimize complex wet-laboratory experiments while supporting multiple research projects.

About the role

The Research Investigator collaborates closely with laboratory team members to generate high-quality data, develop new methodologies, and advance research objectives. The role plays a critical role in sustaining laboratory operations and ensuring successful study execution within a highly regulated research environment.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in laboratory research, experience designing and conducting complex wet-laboratory experiments, and the ability to analyze and interpret scientific data.

Responsibilities

• Research Study Execution
  • Design complex wet-laboratory experiments in support of multiple research projects.
  • Organize laboratory activities required for the successful execution of research studies.
  • Perform complex wet-laboratory experiments using established and emerging methodologies.
  • Optimize experimental procedures to improve research outcomes and data quality.
• Technical Leadership & Laboratory Support
  • Provide technical expertise to support ongoing laboratory research activities.
  • Troubleshoot experimental challenges and technical issues across multiple projects.
  • Provide hands-on laboratory support to other members of the research group as needed.
  • Assist with implementation of new laboratory techniques and technologies.
• Protocol Development & Research Compliance
  • Develop and establish experimental protocols for laboratory studies.
  • Standardize laboratory procedures to promote consistency and reproducibility.
  • Perform molecular experiments in accordance with institutional and regulatory requirements.
  • Perform cellular experiments in accordance with institutional and regulatory requirements.
  • Perform animal-based experiments involving animal tissues in accordance with institutional and regulatory guidelines.
  • Conduct studies involving human specimens in accordance with institutional and regulatory guidelines.
• Cell Culture & Laboratory Operations
  • Maintain cultures of human cells using rigorous aseptic techniques.
  • Maintain cultures of murine cells using rigorous aseptic techniques.
  • Monitor cell morphology to ensure culture quality.
  • Determine cell counts and viability for cultured cells.
  • Ensure adherence to high-quality cell culture practices.
• Data Analysis, Communication & Scientific Contributions
  • Maintain detailed and accurate experimental records.
  • Analyze research data to support study objectives and scientific conclusions.
  • Interpret experimental findings and communicate results to the Principal Investigator and research team.
  • Generate high-quality experimental data for scientific publications.
  • Contribute data and research findings for scientific presentations.
  • Support grant application development through generation of experimental data.
  • Participate in collaborative research initiatives that advance laboratory and departmental goals.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in one of the natural sciences or related field.
• Five years of experience in scientific or experimental research work.

Qualifications

• Preferred Education: Master’s Level Degree.
• Preferred Experience: With preferred degree, three years of experience desirable.

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, plus 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

Salary range (40-hour work week): Minimum $28.37/hour - Midpoint $35.58/hour - Maximum $42.79/hour.

Schedule

• Work Location: Houston, TX (Onsite).
• Typical Work Schedule: Days.

This position may require maintaining the security and integrity of critical infrastructure and may include routine reviews and screening as a condition of hire and continued employment.