Research Staff Assistant

  • 554179
  • Morningside
  • Biological Sciences
  • Part Time
  • Opening on: Dec 2 2025
  • Grade R4
  • Job Type: Support Staff - Non-Union
  • Bargaining Unit:
  • Regular/Temporary: Temporary
  • End Date if Temporary: One year from hire date.
  • Hours Per Week: 20
  • Salary Range: $25,200-$25,200
The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

Position Summary

The Department of Biological Sciences at Columbia University is hiring a Research Staff Assistant to support the Sella Laboratory. The Sella Lab conducts research that combines mathematical modeling and statistical analyses of genomic data to study questions in population and evolutionary genetics. It is an interdisciplinary and collaborative environment committed to promoting a culture of diversity and inclusion in science.

The Research Staff Assistant will report to Dr. William Milligan. The incumbent will use mathematical modeling techniques and analyze comparative genomics data to study mutagenesis in mammals.

This is a part-time, temporary role, subject to continuous funding.


Responsibilities

  • Uses high-performance computing to analyze a large comparative genomics dataset.
  • Assist in designing and developing approaches to investigate mutagenesis with available data.
  • Assists in the preparation and submission of a manuscript related to the research performed.
  • Performs related duties & responsibilities as assigned/requested.

Minimum Qualifications

  • A bachelor's degree is required in a scientific discipline.
  • Minimum one year of experience in a research environment.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Research experience in evolutionary or population genetics.
  • One or more scientific publications in a field to mutagenesis, evolution, or population genetics.

Other Requirements

  • Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Ability to maintain high confidentiality and professionalism.
  • Strong multi-tasking, prioritization, and organization skills.
  • Attention to detail, research, critical thinking, analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Self-starter, a fast learner who can work independently under limited supervision.
  • Work well in an interactive team environment.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

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