• Job Type: Support Staff - Non-Union
• Regular/Temporary: Temporary
• End Date if Temporary: 12/23/2025
• Hours Per Week: 35
• Salary Range: $23.00-$23.85/hour

Position Summary

This one-year grant-funded Research Assistant will manage our cell culture facility and assist and perform (1) work with animal and cancer models and (2) molecular biology techniques, including bacteria.

Responsibilities

(85%) Assist in overseeing the functioning of the cell/tissue culture (TC) facility in the laboratory by:

• Restocking and maintaining TC inventory weekly.
• Placing orders for TC consumables.
• Cleaning and maintenance of two TC hoods and two C02 incubators, as well as scheduling yearly technical repairs and maintenance of this equipment.
• Keeping stock of liquid nitrogen levels.
• Making FBS stocks and preparing 70% ethanol stocks
  • Have experience in:
    • Cell culture: Sterile technique, passaging and maintenance of cell lines and primary cells, media/FBS preparation, cryopreservation, familiar with microscopy.

(10%) Work with animal and cancer models:

• Animal studies: Cancer models, subcutaneous/intravenous/intraperitoneal injections, surgical techniques, anesthesia, IVIS imaging, mouse colony management.

(5%) Help with general molecular biology techniques, including bacteria:

• Molecular biology techniques: restriction digest, PCR, quantitative PCR, cloning, gel electrophoresis, mutagenesis, Gibson assembly, etc.
• Bacteria culture: Sterile technique, maintenance of bacterial strains, LB broth, transformations.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree required and Master’s degree in Biology or a closely related scientific field with knowledge in general microbiology, cell biology, molecular biology techniques, and animal studies preferred.
• Other requirements (at least one year of experience):
  • The ability to work independently, under minimal supervision, following appropriate training.
  • Knowledge of basic chemical and/or biological terminology and techniques.
  • Experience with animal studies.
  • Ability to perform work in a neat and orderly manner in accordance with safety regulations.
  • Computer literacy: proficiency with Microsoft Office.
  • Excellent motivation, interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.