• Job Type: Support Staff - Non-Union
• Bargaining Unit: SSA
• Regular/Temporary: Regular
• End Date if Temporary:
• Hours Per Week: 35
• Salary Range: $50,329.13-$50,329.13

Position Summary

The Columbia Stem Cell Initiative (CSCI) Flow Cytometry core facility is a busy shared instrument resource that provides Columbia University laboratories access to high-end, state-of-the-art flow cytometry instrumentation and services. CSCI Flow Cytometry currently maintains four cell sorters, three cell analyzers, and an imaging cytometer as well a real-time PCR and multiplexed cytokine array instrumentation. In addition, the core facility offers access to 10x Genomics single-cell capture technology. Our services utilized by over 300 researchers from over 150 individual labs from a diverse array of research areas, including stem cell biology, immunology, cancer biology, and neuroscience.

We are currently seeking a motivated candidate to join the CSCI's growing team as a Flow Cytometrist (Technician B). This is an exciting opportunity to be a part of a critical research resource, acquire expertise in extremely technically complex instrumentation and be a part of cutting-edge science at  the top-tier Columbia University Medical Center through interaction with researchers from a wide range of research areas. Although previous experience with flow cytometry instrumentation is a plus, it is not required. We will provide thorough training for the right candidate who demonstrates motivation, eagerness, and an aptitude for learning. This is an opportunity to join and develop career skills in a growing field. 

Responsibilities

• Perform flow cytometer and cell sorter daily setup, calibration, and routine maintenance
• Operate instrument for Columbia University researchers
• Train users to independently operate cell sorters, cell analyzers and other equipment
• Perform routine instrument troubleshooting, intervention, and reporting
• Communicate with instrument manufacturers for coordination of timely repairs
• Assist with the development of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and training materials
• Participate in research and development projects as time permits

  Please note that this position may require some flexibility of working hours, including occasional required overtime and occasional opportunity to earn comp time.  

  CSCI Flow Cytometry is an extremely busy laboratory serving the needs of many researchers in a single day. Success in this position requires independently learning, an aptitude for troubleshooting, the ability to multitask, and excellent interpersonal skills.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology or physics or equivalent in education, training and experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of the principles of flow cytometry  
• Experience performing flow cytometry assays
• Prior experience with flow cytometry instrumentation
• Knowledge of flow cytometry data analysis
• Desktop support or other professional computer skills 
• Knowledge of various related laboratory procedures and techniques
• One year of related experience preferred
• Bachelor's degree in cell biology, molecular biology, or biochemistry or Bachelor's degree in another field with relevant coursework, and a demonstrated understanding of the fundamental concepts of biological sciences

Other Requirements

• Independent and critical thinking skills. Successful instrument troubleshooting, which is a major component of this position, requires implementing a logical workflow, based on knowledge of flow cytometry principles and instrument components, to discover root causes and resolve issues
• Aptitude for constant learning and development, especially with regard to complex instrumentation and technology
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to adapt. This position requires constant interaction with a large user base of varying experience, so patience, willingness to teach, and the ability to resolve conflicts in an assertive, professional, and effective manner is critical for success
• Facility with computers and the ability to adopt new software platforms

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

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