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Research Assistant
Staff Associate I Full-time NEW
Position Description
The Department of Genetics and Development is looking to hire a Staff Associate I to work in the laboratory of Dr. Mustafa Aydogan. The Staff Associate I will contribute to research aimed at understanding the coordination of cellular and molecular processes in mammalian systems. The successful candidate will aid the Aydogan Lab’s pursuit to clarify the role of autonomous cycles in development and physiology, combining experimental and computational approaches to study the mechanisms that regulate cytoplasmic and nuclear synchronization. More information about the lab and their work can be found at https://aydoganlab.com/.
Responsibilities:
- Design and execute experiments to investigate cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate autonomous cycles across physiological contexts.
- Apply and integrate molecular biology, cell culture, and bioengineering methods to dissect cytoplasmic–nuclear coordination.
- Analyze and interpret high-dimensional datasets using R, Python, or MATLAB; develop computational tools.
- Maintain and culture mammalian cell lines under sterile conditions, including passaging, transfection, and generation of stable cell lines.
- Perform molecular biology techniques such as cloning, PCR/qPCR, CRISPR editing, and preparation of DNA and RNA for sequencing.
- Conduct biochemical assays including protein extraction, purification, Western blotting, and sample preparation for proteomics or other downstream analyses.
- Support data processing and analysis of high-throughput datasets (e.g., RNA-seq, proteomics, imaging quantifications).
- Develop and implement scripts or pipelines in R and/or Python for data visualization, statistical analysis, and integration of multi-omics datasets.
- Assist with microscopy-based experiments and quantitative imaging analyses.
- Optimize, document, and maintain laboratory and computational protocols.
- Collaborate with other lab members to support experimental workflows and ensure compliance with institutional safety and research standards.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in the life sciences, computational biology, bioengineering, or a related field required.
- Prior experience in a cell culture–based research environment is required.
- Proficiency in standard molecular biology and biochemistry techniques.
- Working knowledge of R and/or Python for data analysis or bioinformatics workflows.
- Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Attention to detail and ability to maintain clear experimental and computational records.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Commitment to research integrity and safe laboratory practices.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Columbia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran
Pay Transparency Disclosure
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.