Research Assistant, Integrated Genomics Operation

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center; United States; On-site; USD 69,000 - 108,000; Full time

Job summary

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) is seeking a Research Assistant for the Integrated Genomics Operation. You will handle sequencing runs (short- and long-read), perform QC, maintain LIMS documentation, and collaborate with scientists and vendors to ensure smooth sample processing and data transfer.

The role requires a strong molecular biology foundation and a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree with relevant experience; genomics experience is a plus, with training provided as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with at least 4 years of relevant experience or Master’s degree with 2 years of experience.
• Strong foundation in molecular biology.
• Genomics experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Operate short-read (Illumina, Element) and long-read (Oxford Nanopore) sequencers.
• Assist the group leader in planning sequencing runs.
• Execute QC and pooling processes for sequencing libraries.
• Evaluate QC results and troubleshoot as required.
• Manage sequencing reagent inventory in collaboration with lab management.
• Maintain documentation in the IGO Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Communicate with scientists and vendor technical support and sales representatives.
• Collaborate across IGO teams to ensure smooth sample processing and data transfer.
• Learn to operate liquid handlers and robotic instrument for high-throughput workflows.

Skills

Attention to detail

Analytical skills

Interpersonal communication

Problem-solving

Learning mindset

Education

Bachelor’s degree with 4+ years relevant experience

Master’s degree with 2+ years experience

Job description

About Us: The people of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) are united by a singular mission: ending cancer for life. Our specialized care teams provide personalized, compassionate, expert care to patients of all ages. Informed by basic research done at our Sloan Kettering Institute, scientists across MSK collaborate to conduct innovative translational and clinical research that is driving a revolution in our understanding of cancer as a disease and improving the ability to prevent, diagnose, and treat it. MSK is dedicated to training the next generation of scientists and clinicians, who go on to pursue‘our mission‘ at MSK and around the globe.

Exciting opportunity at MSK: Join our Integrated Genomics Operation team as a Research Assistant! The Integrated Genomics Operation (IGO) enables basic, clinical and translational research projects across the Cancer Center. IGO implements the MSK mission to cure cancer by providing a broad range of genomic services and expertise to our world-class research scientists.

We seek an experienced bench scientist who is enthusiastic about mastering a wide range of sequencing applications. The candidate will learn all the nuances of assessing library quality and quantity, learn how to combine different types of samples on to a flowcell and assess sequencing data quality. IGO has a strong team-based culture and as such, the candidate will interface with many other teams within the lab. Prior experience with sequencing is welcome but not required, in-depth training will be provided regardless!

Role Overview

• Operate short-read (Illumina, Element) and long-read (Oxford Nanopore) sequencers.
• Assist the group leader in planning sequencing runs.
• Execute QC and pooling processes for sequencing libraries.
• Evaluate QC results and troubleshoot as required.
• Manage sequencing reagent inventory in collaboration with lab management.
• Maintain documentation in the IGO Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Communicate with scientists and vendor technical support and sales representatives.
• Collaborate across IGO teams to ensure smooth sample processing and data transfer.
• Learn to operate liquid handlers and robotic instrument for high-throughput workflows.

Key Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with at least 4 years of relevant experience or Master’s degree with 2 years of experience.
• Strong foundation in molecular biology.
• Genomics experience is a plus.

Core Skills

• Exceptional attention to detail and strong analytical skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced research environment, managing multiple projects while maintaining precision.
• Enthusiastic about learning opportunities in the lab.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills to troubleshoot experimental challenges.
• Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to interact across all levels in a confident, concise, professional manner.
• Enthusiasm and dedication to MSK’s vision, mission, and values.

Additional Information

• Location: Schwartz Building, 1250 1st Ave, NYC
• Schedule: Monday – Friday 9-5, with the ability to be flexible as needed by the team
• Reporting to: the Manager, Core Facilities

Helpful Links

Compensation Philosophy Benefits Pay Range: $69,400.00 - $107,600.00 FSLA Status: Exempt Closing:

MSK is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to diversity and inclusion in all aspects of recruiting and employment. and will receive consideration without regard to race, color, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, religion, creed, disability, veteran status or any other factor which cannot lawfully be used as a basis for an employment decision. Federal law requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities. Please tell us if you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job or to perform your job. Examples of reasonable accommodation include making a change to the application process or work procedures, providing documents in an alternate format, using a sign language interpreter, or using specialized equipment.

Our multi-disciplinary teams work together to provide exceptional patient care, develop innovative research, and deliver outstanding educational programs. Learn More The people of MSK make this an incredible place to work, grow and make a difference. Discover what makes us unique