• Job Type: Support Staff - Union
• Bargaining Unit: SSA
• Regular/Temporary: Regular
• End Date if Temporary:
• Hours Per Week: 35
• Standard Work Schedule:
• Building:
• Salary Range: $55,112.05- $55,112.05

Position Summary

Our research group investigates how the immune system responds to red blood cells, with projects spanning autoimmunity, alloimmunity, tolerance, transfusion biology, and aging. We combine classical immunology, cutting‑edge cellular technologies, and quantitative approaches to answer fundamental questions with direct clinical relevance.

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Technician who enjoys understanding the science behind their work, is excited to learn new techniques, and can think creatively and independently.

This position is ideal for someone who loves reading journal articles, problem-solving, and contributing intellectually while also mastering hands-on experimental procedures.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will take part in day-to-day experimental research and will be encouraged to develop increasing independence over time. Responsibilities include:

Experimental Techniques

• Mammalian cell culture, including primary human cell processing
• Image-based machine learning workflows (training, annotation, model testing) — training and onboarding support provided; ability to self-teach is essential
• Flow cytometry (sample preparation, staining, acquisition, and basic analysis)
• CAR-T cell–related experimental work, including T cell isolation, activation, and functional assays
• General molecular biology and immunology techniques (pipetting, gels, immunoassays, sterile technique)

Human and Animal Sample Work

• Processing and analyzing human blood samples, including PBMC isolation
• Mouse colony support duties such as genotyping, phenotyping, and monitoring experimental animals

Data & Record Management

• Careful experimental documentation and data organization
• Reading literature to support protocol development and troubleshooting
• Participation in lab meetings and collaborative discussions

We are looking for these Core Qualities

• Intellectual curiosity — someone who genuinely likes thinking about science, reading, troubleshooting, and understanding the “why” behind experiments
• Excellent organization, record keeping, and time management
• Ability to multi-task while maintaining precision

Responsibilities

• 50% - Performing animal experiments
• 30% - Animal husbandry
• 10% - Recording/analyzing data
• 5% - General lab maintenance
• 5% - Other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree in Biology or equivalent in education, training and experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology (Cell and/or Molecular Biology preferred) or a related field and at least 1 year of laboratory experience.
• The ideal candidate will be highly motivated, highly organized, able to multi-task, take initiative, start and complete projects.
• This position requires the technical ability to complete procedures and properly record and report results.
• Applicants with experience in animal colony management and animal husbandry are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Experience with flow cytometry will be an advantage.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

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