Associate Research Scientist

ACS; New York (NY); On-site; USD 79,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Columbia University invites applications for an Associate Research Scientist in the Min Research Group, Department of Chemistry. The role focuses on stimulated Raman scattering microscopy and its integration with machine learning for three-dimensional molecular imaging.

You will lead projects, mentor students, operate advanced Raman microscopes, and collaborate across a multidisciplinary team to apply vibrational imaging to brain, cancer, and neurodegenerative disease.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry or related field with postdoc experience.
• Minimum of two years of postdoctoral experience.
• Strong publication record and ability to lead experiments.

Responsibilities

• Develop next-generation vibrational imaging methods for 3D molecular imaging.
• Lead projects, mentor graduate and undergraduate students, operate Raman microscopes.
• Apply AI/ML to Raman image analysis and reconstruction.
• Collaborate across a multidisciplinary team on biomedical imaging questions.

Skills

Stimulated Raman scattering microscopy

Machine learning for image analysis

Raman-dye multiplexing

Deep-tissue volumetric imaging

Tissue clearing

Neuronal/biomedical imaging

Independent project leadership

Education

Ph.D. in Chemistry or related field

Tools

Raman microscope

Imaging hardware

Job description

Associate Research Scientist

Columbia University in the City of New York: Arts and Sciences Core - Academic: Department of Chemistry

Date

Jul 30, 2026

Salary Range or Pay Grade

$79,327 - $85,000

Description

The Min Research Group in the Department of Chemistry at Columbia University invites applications for an Associate Research Scientist with expertise in stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) microscopy and its integration with machine learning for three-dimensional molecular imaging, to join the laboratory of Professor Wei Min.

The position will begin as early as September 2026, with the possibility of renewal, subject to work eligibility and the usual standards for satisfactory performance and the availability of funding.

Responsibilities include developing next-generation vibrational imaging methods and applying them to biomedical questions in the brain, cancer, and neurodegenerative disease. Specific areas include: developing SRS and Raman-dye multiplexing for highly multiplexed volumetric imaging; combining tissue clearing with vibrational microscopy for deep-tissue and volumetric spatial omics; applying artificial intelligence and machine learning to Raman image analysis and reconstruction; label-free and bio-orthogonal metabolic imaging; and single-particle chemical imaging of nanomedicine, including agents crossing the blood-brain barrier. The successful candidate is expected to lead projects independently, mentor graduate and undergraduate students, maintain and operate advanced Raman microscopes, and collaborate across a multidisciplinary team.

Qualifications

The successful candidate will have a Ph.D. in Chemistry or a related field.

Minimum Qualifications:A Ph.D. in Chemistry or related fields, plus a minimum of two years of postdoctoral experience.

Preferred Qualifications:Extensive experience with stimulated Raman scattering microscopy, Raman-dye multiplexing, tissue clearing, and deep-tissue volumetric imaging; demonstrated application of machine learning to microscopy image analysis; experience in spatial omics, nanomedicine imaging, and animal models; a strong record of peer-reviewed publications; and the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a diverse research team.

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.