• Research Assistant I

    MD Anderson Cancer Center (Bastrop, TX)


    The primary purpose of the Research Assistant I position is to provide technical assistance in carrying out various behavior, cognition, and neuroscience research projects utilizing the primate colonies within the [Department of Comparative Medicine](https://www.mdanderson.org/research/departments-labs-institutes/programs-centers/michale-e-keeling-center-for-comparative-medicine-and-research.html). The Research Assistant I may be subject to working in biocontainment areas requiring compliance with specific protocols. The Research Assistant I requires excellent organizational and communication skills, while working independently and with other team members. The Research Assistant should have a desire and willingness to learn new skills and techniques in this position.

     

    The ideal Research Assistant I will have a bachelor's degree in one of the basic sciences and one year of experience conducting basic or applied research involving animal models. Excellent written and verbal skills and the ability to work independently as part of the a multidisciplinary team are also required. Knowledge of Microsoft Office, observational/statistical software, and programming in Python and/or R are highly desirable.

     

    *Key Functions*

    *Behavioral Research *

     

    Individual will help coordinate, collect and conduct cognition research. The data will come from animal behavioral observations, automated cognitive testing systems, treatment sheets, neurobiological measures, and other records.

     

    Will assist with behavioral management protocols and support other studies.

     

    Will be able to identify animals and target behaviors.

     

    *Data Collection, Organization & Dissemination *

     

    Duties will include computerized recording of data, verifying data entry, and helping to organize and process reports.

     

    Organize files and data manually and on the computer.

     

    Prepare preliminary drafts of specific sections of manuscripts, primarily methods sections.

     

    Disseminate data from conducted studies.

     

    Co-author and/or present papers and posters at regional, national, and international scientific meetings.

     

    *Other Animal/Behavioral Support *

     

    Work to achieve Sectional goals.

     

    Work with other members of the Section of Primate Behavior and Environmental Enrichment to improve the research, behavioral management, and animal healthcare programs.

     

    Work with students/visitors/interns/residents.

     

    Assist with workshops and making hallway displays.

     

    Attend sectional meetings.

     

    Other duties as assigned.

     

    Education: Bachelor's degree with major course works in one of the basic sciences.

     

    Preferred Experience: One year of experience conducting basic or applied research involving animal models. Experience with primate behavior and experience with study management. Excellent written and verbal skills and the ability to work independently as part of a multidisciplinary team. Knowledge of Microsoft Office, observational/statistical software, and programming in Python and/or R are highly desirable.

     

    The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center offers excellent [benefits](https://www.utsystem.edu/offices/employee-benefits/insurance-0/eligibility), including medical, dental, [paid time off](https://www.mdanderson.org/about-md-anderson/employee-resources/leave.html), [retirement](https://www.utsystem.edu/offices/employee-benefits/ut-retirement-program/voluntary-retirement-programs), 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 113.001(2) 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.[http://www.mdanderson.org/about-us/legal-and-policy/legal-statements/eeo-affirmative-action.html](http://www.mdanderson.org/about-us/legal-and-policy/legal-statements/eeo-affirmative-action.html)

    Additional Information

    * Requisition ID: 177045

    * Employment Status: Full-Time

    * Employee Status: Regular

    * Work Week: Days

    * Minimum Salary: US Dollar (USD) 39,500

    * Midpoint Salary: US Dollar (USD) 49,500

    * Maximum Salary : US Dollar (USD) 59,500

    * FLSA: non-exempt and eligible for overtime pay

    * Fund Type: Soft

    * Work Location: Onsite

    * Pivotal Position: Yes

    * Referral Bonus Available?: No

    * Relocation Assistance Available?: Yes

     

    \#LI-Onsite