• Job Type: Support Staff - Non-Union
• Regular/Temporary: Temporary
• End Date if Temporary: 12/31/2025
• Hours Per Week: 35
• Salary Range: $39,800 - $40,400

Position Summary

This six-month grant-funded Research Assistant will help 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 cells 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

• High School Diploma required. Minimum 0-3 months of experience in a research environment.

• The ability to work independently, under minimal supervision, following appropriate training.

• Knowledge of basic chemical and/or biological terminology and techniques.

• 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.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biology or a closely related scientific field with knowledge in general microbiology, cell biology, molecular biology techniques, and animal studies preferred.

• Experience with animal studies.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

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