The Genomics Information Systems Laboratory of Prof. Dimitris Anastassiou (https://engineering.columbia.edu/faculty/dimitris-anastassiou) in the Department of Electrical Engineering has openings for one or more Staff Associate (SA) Officers of Research in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics.The lab is also affiliated with Columbia University?s Department of Systems Biology.

Candidates should have a degree in Computer Science or a related field, as well as experience and a publication record in Computational Systems Biology and Bioinformatics. The research in which they will assist will involve algorithm development and computational analysis of biomolecular information, using both traditional and newly developed methods, to discover and elucidate important biological mechanisms building and expanding on existing results. It will also involve collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and experimental research labs to validate computational results.

One current research focus is on analyzing the increasingly available single-cell and spatial data from cancer biopsies investigating the cellular composition and evolution of cellular populations including cancer cells as well as fibroblasts and immune cells in the tumor microenvironment, shedding light on cancer invasiveness-associated mechanisms and identifying potential therapeutic targets.

Specific responsibilities and duties are listed below for each title and grade (SAI, SAII, and SAIII):

1. Functional Knowledge - For SAI: Knowledge of the research subject and scientific methods of analysis; For SAII: Knowledge of the research subject specifically within own function on the team; For SAIII - Knowledge of the research subject and understanding of how functions interrelate and support the broader research; considered specialist within own function.

2. Problem Solving - For SAI: Utilizes analytical skills to solve moderately complex problems based on guidelines, protocols, and procedures. For SAII: Solves problems in moderately complex situations, analyzing possible solutions based on education and experience using judgment and precedent. For SAIII: Utilizes strong analytical skills to solve complex problems; exercises developed judgment based on the analysis of multiple sources of information.

3. Decision Making/Autonomy - For SAI: Works within guidelines to carry out assigned duties in the design of apparatus, the adaptation of relevant technology to the needs of a project, the conduct of specific experiments, and the analysis of data. For SAII: Carries out research projects with limited PI supervision both collaboratively and independently. For SAIII: Works under minimal supervision on complex assignments that require a high degree of initiative and independent judgment.

4. Technical Expertise - For SAI: Ability to operate and maintain equipment, computers, software programs and research tools in support of the project. For SAII: Operates and maintains equipment, computers, software programs and research tools in support of the project. For SAIII: Broad understanding of research techniques, software and instruments used in project.

5. Communication - For SAI: Shares information and confirmation of data. For SAII: Summarizes and explains information to others. May contribute to publications. For SAIII: Ability to translate information to general terms and help others understand impact of the information; assists PI in preparation of publications, including funding proposals, manuscripts and other research-oriented documentation.

The minimum qualifications for each title and grade are as follows:

1. Staff Associate I: Bachelor's degree in computer science or related field and 4 years experience preferred.
2. Staff Associate II: Bachelor's degree in computer science or related field and 4 years recommended.
3. Staff Associate III: Bachelor's degree in computer science or related field and 4-6 years experience.

Candidates with a master?s in Computer Science, or a related field, are preferred. Candidates should have a publication record in Computational Systems Biology and Informatics. 

The school is especially interested in qualified candidates who will contribute, through their research, teaching, and/or service, to the diversity and excellence of the academic community.

Applications should be submitted electronically to apply.interfolio.com/161167 and include the following: an academic curriculum vitae and a brief cover letter addressed to Prof. Dimitris Anastassiou. Applications received by January 24, 2025 will receive full consideration, and the position will remain open until filled. 

Hiring Range: Staff Associate I: $62,400-$92,691; Staff Associate II: $63,870-$101,687; Staff Associate III: $65,508-$121,480

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.

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