Associate Research Scientist

The Department of Biomedical Engineering is looking for an Associate Research Scientist. This position is available immediately in the Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering directed by Dr. Gordana Vunjak-Novakovic. We are looking for a highly motivated scientist to join our team and contribute to cutting-edge research in stem cell and organ-on-a-chip technology. This role will serve as a lead on our cancer metastasis organ-on-a-chip project aimed at better understanding the mechanisms that drive tumor colonization to various organs. Please see our website for more information: gvnlab.bme.columbia.edu

The ideal candidate will bring hands-on expertise in organoid and human pluripotent stem cell culture, a strong understanding of cancer biology, and familiarity with organ-on-a-chip and other microphysiological systems. They will be responsible for establishing, maintaining, and genetically modifying patient-derived tumor organoids and immune cells. They will also work to validate hypotheses driving metastatic organotropism in our organ-on-a-chip systems. We are particularly interested in a scientist that is self-motivated and looking to grow into a multi-faceted role. An ability to work well with collaborators and lab members and to oversee deliverables will be critical.

An Associate Research Scientist position is available immediately in the Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering directed by Dr. Gordana Vunjak-Novakovic. We are looking for a highly motivated scientist to join our team and contribute to cutting-edge research in stem cell and organ-on-a-chip technology. This role will serve as a lead on our cancer metastasis organ-on-a-chip project aimed at better understanding the mechanisms that drive tumor colonization to various organs. Please see our website for more information: gvnlab.bme.columbia.edu

Culture human stem cells and engineer tissues

Conduct advanced stem cell culture, differentiation, and tissue engineering experiments.

Derive and maintain organoids from patient tumor tissue.

Isolate, expand, and modify patient immune cells.

Conduct QC of cells, organoids, and tissues.

50%

Manage of External Partnerships:

Coordinate with collaborators for protocol and knowledge transfers and hypothesis generation.

Establish and adapt protocols for internal use.

Lead project updates for external stakeholders.

25%

Testing, Analysis & Documentation:

Perform analytical testing, system validation, and testing to evaluate device performance.

Collect, analyze, and interpret complex datasets; prepare technical reports and publications.

Contribute to grant applications, patents, and conference presentations.

25%

Required Qualifications

* PhD degree in Cell Biology, Bioengineering, Regenerative Medicine, or related field with 3-5 years of relevant research experience

* Demonstrated expertise in human iPSC culture, including expansion, differentiation, and characterization techniques (immunocytochemistry, flow cytometry, gene expression analysis)

* Hands-on experience with derivation and culture of tumor organoids.

* Proven expertise in cancer biology or bioengineering.

* Self-motivation with demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously

* Excellent communication skills and ability to present scientific data to diverse audiences

Preferred Qualifications

* Expertise in studies of metastasis

* Experience in engineering human tissues.

* Experience in establishing organoid lines from patient tissue

Experience in CRISPR screens in 3D models

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.