Associate Research Scientist

The Department of Chemistry at Columbia University invites applications for the position of Associate Research Scientist. The successful candidate will work at the intersection of nanofabrication, microelectronics, optical engineering, and molecular biology to develop novel biochemical assays that integrate custom-designed optical detection systems. The Associate Research Scientist will lead collaborations with internal and external partners to design, build, and validate a new class of multiplexed biochemical assays. The position will begin as early as the 6th of October 2025, with the possibility of renewal, subject to work eligibility, satisfactory performance, and the availability of funding.

Responsibilities include:

• Designing and fabricating nanostructured devices and microfluidic platforms using nanofabrication and soft-lithography methods.
• Developing, building, and testing custom electronic systems, including electronic circuit design and microcontroller programming.
• Designing and implementing modern optical instrumentation, including Raman and fluorescence microscopy systems.
• Applying molecular biology and biochemistry techniques to assay development.
• Collaborating with investigators to integrate optics, electronics, and biochemistry into novel platforms for multiplexed biochemical detection.
• Analyzing experimental data using computational tools such as MATLAB and related programs.
• Writing and assisting with grant proposals, manuscripts, and patents.
• Coordinating multi-institutional collaborations and managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Training and mentoring students and postdoctoral researchers with diverse scientific backgrounds.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry

Preferred Qualifications

• 1-5 years of postdoctoral or equivalent research experience.
• Demonstrated expertise in nanofabrication and soft-lithography.
• Experience in circuit design, testing, and microcontroller programming.
• Strong background in optics, with experience building Raman and fluorescence systems.
• Familiarity with molecular biology and biochemical assay development.
• Proficiency in data processing and analysis (e.g., MATLAB).
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
• Proven ability to manage projects, coordinate collaborations, and write competitive grant applications.
• Interest and ability to mentor and train junior researchers in an interdisciplinary environment.

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.