Technician B - Infectious Diseases

Columbia University in the City of New York; New York (NY); On-site; USD 51,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Columbia University in the City of New York seeks a Technician B to support ongoing laboratory research in host-pathogen interactions. The role involves routine experiments, animal colony maintenance, and meticulous record-keeping under supervision.

The candidate will assist with immunologic and microbiologic assays, maintain supplies, and ensure compliance with safety policies. A Biology-related bachelor's degree and strong organizational skills are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biology or related field; equivalent combination of education and experience acceptable.
• Ability to perform laboratory techniques and maintain accurate research records.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills; good communication.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine laboratory procedures and assays per established protocols.
• Assist with immunologic, cellular, and molecular experiments; data collection.
• Maintain accurate research records, data logs, and documentation.
• Support data compilation, quality review, and preparation of summaries for meetings.
• Assist with new experimental procedures and methods.

Skills

Organizational skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Chemistry, or related field

Tools

ELISA

Flow cytometry

Western blotting

Immunofluorescence

Job description

• Job Type: Support Staff - Union
• Bargaining Unit: SSA
• Regular/Temporary: Regular
• Hours Per Week: 35
• Salary Range: $56,489.86 - $56,489.86

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.

Position Summary

The Vyas Laboratory investigates host-pathogen interactions in invasive fungal infections, with a focus on understanding immune responses that influence disease outcomes. Using animal models, cell culture systems, and translational research approaches, the laboratory seeks to identify mechanisms that may inform future therapeutic strategies.

The Technician B will provide technical and operational support for ongoing laboratory research activities. Responsibilities include conducting routine laboratory procedures, supporting animal colony maintenance, assisting with immunologic and microbiologic experiments, maintaining laboratory supplies and records, and ensuring compliance with established safety and regulatory requirements. The incumbent will work closely with laboratory personnel to support research projects and laboratory operations.

Responsibilities

Laboratory Research Support

• Perform routine laboratory procedures and assays in accordance with established protocols.
• Assist with immunologic, cellular, and molecular biology experiments, including sample preparation, staining procedures, and data collection.
• Conduct ELISA, Western blotting, immunofluorescence, cell surface staining, flow cytometry preparation, and other laboratory techniques following investigator guidance.
• Maintain accurate and detailed research records, data logs, and laboratory documentation.
• Assist with data compilation, quality review, and preparation of research summaries for laboratory meetings.
• Support implementation of new experimental procedures and laboratory methodologies.

Animal Research Support

• Assist with maintenance and monitoring of mouse colonies.
• Maintain colony databases and animal records in accordance with institutional requirements.
• Perform routine animal husbandry activities and assist with animal studies following approved protocols and training.
• Support laboratory personnel with animal handling and infection model studies as needed.

Laboratory Operations

• Monitor laboratory inventory and assist with ordering, receiving, stocking, and organizing supplies and reagents.
• Prepare laboratory reagents, solutions, and materials for research activities.
• Assist with routine equipment maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting.
• Maintain laboratory organization and cleanliness in accordance with laboratory standards.

Compliance and Safety

• Adhere to institutional, departmental, and laboratory safety policies and procedures.
• Follow established protocols for handling biological materials and hazardous substances.
• Assist in maintaining compliance documentation and laboratory records required by regulatory and institutional guidelines.
• Participate in required safety, compliance, and animal research training programs.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Chemistry, or a related scientific field, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Demonstrated ability to perform laboratory techniques and maintain accurate research records.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in an academic biomedical research laboratory.
• Familiarity with immunologic techniques, including ELISA, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, and Western blotting.

Other Requirements

• The candidate selected for this position is required to undergo a drug screening test prior to a final offer of employment being made
• Medical clearance and participation in the medical surveillance program
  • Contact with laboratory animals
  • Wear N-95 respirator
  • Potential bloodborne pathogen exposure
• Successful completion of applicable compliance and systems training requirements

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

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