Research Scientist - Houston, TX

Research Scientist · The Research Scientist position supports work within Experimental Therapeutics by coordinating, designing, and conducting cancer-focused research studies. As a Research Scientist, this role contributes to rigorous laboratory operations and scientific discover ...

Job description

Research Scientist

The Research Scientist position supports work within Experimental Therapeutics by coordinating, designing, and conducting cancer-focused research studies. As a Research Scientist, this role contributes to rigorous laboratory operations and scientific discovery that advances institutional goals. MD Anderson Cancer Center is a leading institution focused on cancer care, research, education, and prevention. As a Research Scientist, you will help drive high-impact research efforts that enhance understanding of cancer biology and potential therapeutic strategies. This Research Scientist role is essential to the success of complex laboratory initiatives and collaborative scientific projects.

An ideal candidate brings advanced scientific training, hands-on laboratory experience, and familiarity with designing and interpreting cancer research experiments. Preferred qualifications typically include a graduate-level scientific degree, relevant laboratory experience, and prior exposure to in vitro and in vivo research environments.

Why Us?

Joining MD Anderson as a Research Scientist provides the opportunity to contribute to meaningful cancer research while developing technical and professional expertise. This role supports scientific innovation, offers strong institutional resources, and promotes a balanced work environment designed to help you grow across all stages of your career.

• 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.

Salary Range - Minimum Salary $68,500

• Midpoint Salary $85,500
• Salary Midpoint 85,500

Responsibilities
Research Project Coordination & Execution

• Plan, organize, direct, and participate in experiments supporting cancer research projects
• Design research projects semi-independently and execute those approved by the principal investigator
• Apply scientific knowledge and understanding of project rationale to carry out assigned studies
• Interpret experimental data and confirm biological properties using comparative studies
• Perform multi-step biological evaluations in vitro and in vivo for novel investigational drugs
• Utilize Omics techniques to study mechanisms of action
• Maintain current knowledge of literature relevant to assigned projects
• Follow all institutional guidelines for laboratory safety and universal precautions
• Function independently when designing and initiating research experiments

Equipment, Supplies & Laboratory Operations

• Manage inventory of biologics and chemicals and replenish materials as needed
• Order supplies required for research studies
• Share responsibility for laboratory maintenance and operational needs with team members

Data Management & Scientific Documentation

• Compile, write, and evaluate data for publication purposes
• Submit weekly project results to the principal investigator in the correct digital format
• Maintain accurate, detailed, and well-organized records, data sets, and protocols
• Prepare graphs and tables using photography, computer systems, or manual methods
• Present research findings to professional groups
• Prepare scientific materials to support patent applications and publications
• Maintain full compliance with all laboratory safety requirements

Other Duties

• Perform additional tasks as assigned

EDUCATION

• Required: Master's Degree Natural sciences or related field
• Preferred: PhD Natural sciences or Medical Degree

Work Experience

• Required: Four years Experimental or scientific work
• Required: Two years Experimental or scientific work with medical degree
• Required: No experience required with PhD.
• Preferred Experience: Five years of related experience to include research work at MD Anderson Cancer Center. Knowledge of scientific instruments used in related fields of research-- such as electron microscopy, flow cytometry, mass spectrometry, computer imaging, pharmacokinetics, and artificial intelligence computer systems design.

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

This position may be responsible for maintaining the security and integrity of critical infrastructure, as defined in Section of the Texas Business and Commerce Code and therefore may require routine reviews and screening. The ability to satisfy and maintain all requirements necessary to ensure the continued security and integrity of such infrastructure is a condition of hire and continued employment.

It is the policy of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center to provide equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by institutional policy or by federal, state, or local laws unless such distinction is required by law.

Additional Information

• Requisition ID: 178979
• Employment Status: Full-Time
• Employee Status: Regular
• Work Week: Day/Evening
• Minimum Salary: US Dollar (USD) 68,500
• Midpoint Salary: US Dollar (USD) 85,500
• Maximum Salary : US Dollar (USD) 102,500
• FLSA: exempt and not eligible for overtime pay
• Fund Type: Soft
• Work Location: Onsite
• Pivotal Position: Yes
• Referral Bonus Available?: No
• Relocation Assistance Available?: Yes