Research Assistant

• Job Type: Support Staff - Non-Union
• Bargaining Unit:
• Regular/Temporary: Temporary
• End Date if Temporary: 07/31/2026
• Hours Per Week: 28
• Standard Work Schedule:
• Building:
• Salary Range: 23.40 to $24.50

Position Summary

This part time ( 28 hours a week) Research Assistant provides comprehensive operational and technical support for laboratory activities, including oversight of inventory, maintenance and troubleshooting of specialized equipment, and ensuring continuity of day-to-day lab operations. Plays a key role in onboarding and training new staff and students in laboratory procedures, safety practices, and techniques. Supports research initiatives through execution of assigned experimental, technical, and project-based tasks in alignment with departmental and faculty priorities.

Responsibilities

• Maintain Laboratory Inventory – 30%
  Oversees all aspects of laboratory inventory management, including ordering, tracking, and restocking of supplies, reagents, and consumables. Ensures proper storage, labeling, and compliance with safety and regulatory requirements. Monitors usage trends and forecasts needs to support uninterrupted research operations while maintaining cost efficiency and minimizing waste.

• Maintain Laboratory Equipment – 30%
  Responsible for the routine inspection, calibration, and troubleshooting of laboratory instruments and shared equipment. Coordinates repairs and preventative maintenance with vendors and internal service units. Ensures all equipment is operational, compliant with safety standards, and properly documented to support accurate and reliable research outcomes.

• Assist with the Orientation and Training of New Students – 20%
  Leads onboarding support for new students and research staff by providing hands-on training in laboratory techniques, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and safety protocols. Serves as a point of contact for day-to-day guidance, reinforcing best practices and fostering a safe, productive lab environment.

• Perform Research-Related Duties as Assigned by the PI – 20%
  Supports faculty-led research initiatives through execution of experimental tasks, data collection, documentation, and general project support as directed by the Principal Investigator. Contributes to the advancement of research goals by ensuring accuracy, organization, and adherence to established protocols and timelines.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required in a scientific discipline.
• Minimum six (6) months of experience in a research environment.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

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