Lab Administration Research Technician - Gadagkar Lab

Primary Work Address: HHMI/Columbia University | Shadlen Lab--L5-003, New York, NY, 10027

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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, Freeman Hrabowski Scholar at Columbia University, is seeking a Lab Administration Research Technician to support research activities and lead day-to-day lab operations. 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 https://gadagkar.zuckermaninstitute.columbia.edu/

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

• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• Joining the highly dynamic and vibrant Columbia/Zuckerman Institute research community.
• Full access to HHMI's on-demand training courses and interactive skill-building seminars, led by members of our learning and organization development team.
• Opportunities for professional development, career growth, and direct mentorship from Dr. Gadagkar.
• Opportunities to learn new scientific techniques to further strengthen your skills and knowledge.

• 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, electrophysiology, animal husbandry, and data analysis.
• Initiate and manage purchase orders for the lab while keeping track of supplies and expenditures on a daily/weekly/monthly basis.
• Serve as primary point of contact for the lab, including close coordination with vendors, regulatory authorities, and Columbia administrative staff for service contracts, inspections, lab equipment maintenance, repairs, infrastructure needs, space allocation, etc.
• Manage and update animal protocols, SOPs, and other lab documentation as needed.
• Assist with planning and execution of lab meetings, events, and team activities.

• A bachelor's degree in the life sciences is required.
• Previous research experience and lab administrative/operations support experience is required.
• Previous experience with animal husbandry and data analysis is required.
• Previous experience with electrophysiology would be a plus.
• Strong sense of self-motivation, integrity, trustworthiness, and demonstrated ability to work well in an inclusive environment with people from a wide variety of backgrounds.
• Passion for efficiency, operational excellence, and process improvement.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and high attention to detail.
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work independently and prioritize tasks according to lab needs.
• Strong knowledge of computers, Microsoft Office Suite, and other relevant technologies.