Research Technician I - 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 Research Technician I to support scientific research projects and activities. 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.

About the Research Technician I role:
As the Research Technician I, you are an organized, responsible, teamwork-oriented individual who can work collaboratively with graduate students, postdocs, other technicians, and Dr. Gadagkar in support of the lab's research goals. This role will be responsible for setting up and performing various techniques and experiments as well as assisting with general laboratory maintenance. This is an excellent opportunity for an enthusiastic, self-motivated professional looking to stay within the lab for at least 2 years before moving on to the next chapter of their career or graduate school/medical school.

What we provide:

• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• Exposure to outstanding science and the opportunity to grow your research skills by learning new techniques.
• Joining a strong, collaborative team that fosters a positive and inclusive lab culture.
• Hands-on training, mentorship, and professional development.
• Access to state-of-the-art technology and equipment.
• Opportunities to participate in meetings and other events.

• Work collaboratively with a team of scientists conducting a variety of research projects.
• Assist scientists by performing various lab techniques, operating scientific instruments and equipment, and setting up and running experiments.
• 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, animal husbandry, and data analysis.
• Collect, record, organize and verify the accuracy of data; perform calculations and prepare charts, graphs, and reports as needed.
• Participate in laboratory meetings and planning sessions.
• Assist with general lab operations and organizational support as needed to help maintain a safe, clean, orderly, and efficient lab environment.

• A bachelor's degree in the life sciences is required.
• Some previous hands-on research experience in a lab environment is required.
• Previous experience with animal husbandry and data analysis is required.
• Previous experience with histology is preferred.
• Previous experience with electrophysiology would be a plus.
• Any experience with MATLAB, Python, or other programming language would be a plus.
• Ability to work well with a wide variety of people at all levels and from all backgrounds.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and teamwork skills.
• Strong attention to detail, strong time management skills, and strong prioritization skills.
• Proactive approach with an eagerness to learn, grow professionally, and be mentored.