Research Technician I – Gadagkar Lab Full-time

The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) advances the discovery and sharing of scientific knowledge to benefit us all. As a biomedical research organization and philanthropy, HHMI supports a vibrant community of academic researchers, educators, students, and professionals. Together, we’re unlocking the fundamentals of biology and building an open, inclusive future for science.

The lab of Dr. Vikram Gadagkar, at Columbia University, is seeking a Research Technician I to support scientific research projects and activities. The Gadagkar lab’s goal is to combine the advantages of the songbird courtship system with state-of-the-art computational, theoretical, and experimental approaches to discover how brains evaluate behaviors, both self-generated and the behaviors of others. By discovering fundamental principles of brain function, they aim to provide insight into neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and autism. More information about the lab team and their work can be found by visiting

This position is expected to begin after October 1, 2025 in concurrence with Dr. Gadagkar’s upcoming appointment as a .

About the Research Technician I role:
As the Research Technician I, you are an organized, responsible, teamwork-oriented individual who can work collaboratively with graduate students, postdocs, other technicians, and Dr. Gadagkar in support of the lab’s research goals. This role will be responsible for setting up and performing various techniques and experiments as well as assisting with general laboratory maintenance. This is an excellent opportunity for an enthusiastic, self-motivated professional looking to stay within the lab for at least 2 years before moving on to the next chapter of their career or graduate school/medical school.

What we provide:

• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• Exposure to outstanding science and the opportunity to grow your research skills by learning new techniques.
• Joining a strong, collaborative team that fosters a positive and inclusive lab culture.
• Hands-on training, mentorship, and professional development.
• Access to state-of-the-art technology and equipment.
• Opportunities to participate in meetings and other events.

What you’ll do:

• Work collaboratively with a team of scientists conducting a variety of research projects.
• Assist scientists by performing various lab techniques, operating scientific instruments and equipment, and setting up and running experiments.
• Manage the care and general oversight of the lab’s bird colony in partnership with other lab team members.
• Perform day-to-day research support duties including histology, animal husbandry, and data analysis.
• Collect, record, organize and verify the accuracy of data; perform calculations and prepare charts, graphs, and reports as needed.
• Participate in laboratory meetings and planning sessions.
• Assist with general lab operations and organizational support as needed to help maintain a safe, clean, orderly, and efficient lab environment.

What you bring:

• A bachelor’s degree in the life sciences is required.
• Some previous hands-on research experience in a lab environment is required.
• Previous experience with animal husbandry and data analysis is required.
• Previous experience with histology is preferred.
• Previous experience with electrophysiology would be a plus.
• Any experience with MATLAB, Python, or other programming language would be a plus.
• Ability to work well with a wide variety of people at all levels and from all backgrounds.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and teamwork skills.
• Strong attention to detail, strong time management skills, and strong prioritization skills.
• Proactive approach with an eagerness to learn, grow professionally, and be mentored.

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Work may involve possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances or other hazardous materials.

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act. #LI-NG1

Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our site to learn more.

Compensation Range
$19.24 (minimum) – $24.09 (midpoint) – $31.29 (maximum)

Pay Type:
Hourly

HHMI’s salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. HHMI considers a candidate’s education, previous experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal consistency when making job offers. Typically, a new hire for this position in this location is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range.

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Tagged as: Life Sciences