• Job Type: Support Staff - Non-Union
• Regular/Temporary: Temporary
• End Date if Temporary: 10/31/2025
• Hours Per Week: 35
• Salary Range: $50,000 to $55,000

Position Summary

The UEIL is seeking a research assistant (RA)/Technician  ( one year- grant funded) to assist in the day-to-day technical tasks of the laboratory. RA will be responsible for maintaining breeding colonies, running behavioral assays, perfusions, tissue processing for immunohistochemistry, microscopy, sample preparation for qPCR, RNAseq, and spatial sequencing including histochemical and biochemical assays. Additional duties and responsibilities include (not limited to) checking and maintaining stocks and solutions in the lab, staying up to date with regulatory training, and general lab support. We are seeking a motivated individual with a strong background in neuroscience or molecular biology, and a strong history of working with small animals in a laboratory setting.

There is potential for growth and opportunities with this position and is to be expected. This is an ideal position for a recent graduate looking to pursue further graduate studies or medical professions.

UEIL is led by Dr. Konofagou, in the Department of Biomedical Engineering, we are a translational science lab focused on using ultrasound in the areas of real-time imaging and as a theranostic tool in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. This position will be assisting in studies using focused ultrasound in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders as well as support other groups as needed.

Responsibilities

• (35%)Handling small animals and perfusions. 
• (25%) Perform cryostat sectioning and immunohistochemistry.
• (15%) Perform and assist with mouse behavior as needed.
• (10%) Sample preparation for qPCR, RNAseq, spatial sequencing, and biochemical assays.
• (10%) Assist in the maintenance of lab safety protocols.
• (5%) Performs other tasks, duties, and responsibilities as required.

Minimum Qualifications

• Required: Bachelor's degree required in a scientific discipline.
• Experience: Minimum two (2) years of experience in a research environment. 1 year of experience handling rodents in a laboratory setting and/or wet-laboratory experience.
• Skills and Knowledge: The ideal candidate must be able to work independently, be self-motivated, and positively contribute. to labs aims and objectives. Strong organization, communication, and computer skills. Ability to prioritize, and work independently and under direct supervision from senior lab personnel.
• Preferred: Preference will be given to individuals with prior experience working independently with animals (i.e. breeding, behavior, surgery) and laboratory experience (can include undergrad volunteering in a research lab) in chemistry, biology, physics, or a related science, although neuroscience or behavioral psychology is highly preferred

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

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