Research Medical Lab Scientist - Clinical Trials Lab Services

Allied Health Opportunity

Opportunity to join one of the world's most respected centers devoted exclusively to cancer patient care, research, education, and prevention.

The MD Anderson Clinical Trials Lab Services (CTLS) team specializes in research biospecimen collection of blood, urine, buccal, and hair. The position is 3:00pm-11:30pm.

Summary

The primary purpose of the Research Medical Laboratory Scientist position is to independently perform procedures using clinical and translational research methodologies (PK, PD, PG, PBMC, etc.) and assist in the development of new laboratory services for the CTLS Laboratory.

Key Functions

Analytical Procedures and Processes (40%)

Demonstrates competency in the performance of all laboratory procedures and processes specific to each clinical trial in compliance with safety guidelines policies and requirements while adhering to regulatory mandates. Remains knowledgeable of all policies, procedures, and protocols which are essential to the timeliness of results reported while assuring that productivity is adequate to meet the demands of the workload. Processes collected specimens as needed and instructs CITs in techniques for simple and complex processing while adhering to laboratory safety guidelines. Performs PDs, PBMCs, PGs, cell enumeration and other complex lab processing in lieu of the CIT staff for enhanced process control and quality. Inspects collected and processed samples for labeling accuracy and visual sample quality. Adjusts, prioritizes, and organizes work to achieve maximum productivity to meet the workload demands of the section.

Quality Control and Assurance (30%)

Ensures and verifies quality control data is appropriate for the complexity and requirements of the research and clinical assays. Performs regular inventory (daily, monthly and as needed) to assure supplies and reagents are available to meet laboratory needs. Assists in the development of laboratory and tests, to enhance laboratory functions. Validates and evaluates new methodologies and tests with the help of Laboratory Supervisor and Assistant Director. Maintains an electronic inventory system of research sample data utilizing the departmental database software, beginning with entry of samples on day of collection. Relates quality control data to unknowns analyzed, assuring appropriate action based on results.

Research Communication/Customer Service (30%)

Receives and responds to queries from laboratories, monitors and MDACC research teams. Completes, verifies, and reports results in timely manner. Maintains competency in computer functions. Includes entering of data in appropriate excel spreadsheets/logs for pharmacology studies. Interacts with the multidisciplinary team involved in sample collection, processing, storage and/or shipping, documentation of all, as well as, procedure development, evaluations, quality assurance, process improvement, and continuing education for the accurate and timely performance of pharmacokinetic sampling in the conduct of clinical trials. Manages all customer services interactions with diplomacy, actively facilitating resolutions to problems and addressing the needs of all clients both internal and external.

MD Anderson offers our employees: Paid employee medical benefits (zero premium) starting on first day for employees who work 30 or more hours per week. Group Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D and Disability coverage. Paid time off (PTO) and Extended Illness Bank (EIB) paid leave accruals. Paid institutional holidays, wellness leave, childcare leave, and other paid leave programs. Tuition Assistance Program after six months of service. Teachers Retirement System defined-benefit pension plan and two voluntary retirement plans. Employer paid life, AD&D and an illness-related reduced salary pay program. Extensive wellness, recognition, fitness, employee health programs and employee resource groups. Opportunities for professional growth through Career Development Center and Mentoring programs.

Education

• Required: Bachelor's Degree, or Bachelor's Degree Molecular Genetic Technology, or Clinical Laboratory Science program.
• Preferred: Bachelor's degree in Medical Technology or Clinical Laboratory Science.

Work Experience

• Required: 1 year Clinical laboratory experience.
• Preferred: One year of clinical research laboratory experience or as a Medical Technologist.

Licenses and Certifications

• Required: None
• Preferred: One of the following
• Registered/Certified Medical Technologist/Medical Laboratory Scientist by the American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Registry (ASCP).
• Certified in a specialized field relevant to the laboratory assigned.

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center offers excellent benefits, including medical, dental, paid time off, retirement, and 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.