The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston is one of the world's most respected centers focused on cancer patient care, research, education, and prevention. It was named the nation's No. 1 hospital for cancer care in U.S. News & World Report’s 2022-2023 rankings. It is one of the nation's original three comprehensive cancer centers designated by the National Cancer Institute.

The Senior Research Scientist plans, organizes, coordinates and participates in scientific research projects. Determines specific goals or objectives to be obtained, evaluates research data and develops and revises techniques or approaches to work problems. Functions in a separate and independent manner in the design and initiation of research experiments. Designs, develops or adapts equipment used in experiments or research to obtain desired results. Presents findings of research projects to professional groups and prepares scientific documents for publication.

KEY FUNCTIONS

Molecular, Cellular and Animal Experiment Techniques

•Performs patient derived xenograft model implantation.
•Monitors murine health, including appearance and body weight.•Performs imaging of tumor bearing mice.
•Obtains tissue and blood samples from mice.
•Processes tissue and blood samples for analysis.

Molecular and Cellular Immunology Techniques

•Evaluates the therapeutic effects of cell therapies and biologics.
•Examines the mechanisms of action of lymphoma therapeutics.
•Performs immunophenotypic and transcriptional assays on immune cells.
•Requires a working knowledge of animal research and flow cytometry.
•The immunological procedures and analysis require accurate vision and standing for long periods of time and keen hand dexterity.
•Should be able to maintain and operate sophisticated lab equipment.
•All these analyses require standing for long periods of time, working with potentially hazardous substances, and movement around the lab to work with different equipment

Research Data Administration

•Maintains accurate, detailed records and experimental data and protocols.
•Prepares graphs, slides, and tables via photography, computer, or manually.
•Communicates results to and understands instructions from the principal investigator and colleagues. Fluent spoken and written English is essential.
•Discusses goals of each project with supervisor. Develops a step-by-step written procedure outlining the specific actions required to conduct the experiment before proceeding.
•Reads literature and confers with supervisor regarding new procedures and modifies them according to the needs of the project.

Laboratory Management Support

•Monitors, orders and shelves tissue culture supplies to ensure efficient functioning.
•Demonstrates and practices lab safety precautions.
•Receives verbal and/or written instructions from principal investigator on standards and specialized lab safety procedures.
•Attends annual safety courses required by MDA and other agencies. Handles, stores, and disposes of chemically hazardous materials, and biohazardous materials in procedure specified to meet MDA safety guidelines.
•Follows manufacturer’s guidelines regarding the handling and maintenance of all lab equipment. Will have working knowledge of equipment operation manuals and procedure manuals whenever necessary. 
•Application of universal safety precautions at all times.

Other duties as assigned.