A position for an Associate Scientist I with theoretical knowledge in next-generation sequencing techniques and molecular biology is available in the Center for Genomics of Neurodegenerative Disease (CGND) at the New York Genome Center. The initial research focus is on Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), with a particular emphasis on regulatory mechanisms affecting the transcriptome, as well as mechanisms underlying intercellular interactions in the disease. We integrate the experimental and computational analysis of large-scale data that includes transcriptomes of specific cell types in the Central Nervous System, profiles of RNA-binding proteins implicated in disease, and high-resolution imaging.

The group seeks an incumbent with at least one to two years of research experience to support sample processing and preparation of libraries, from cDNA to library preparation, QC, maintaining a large number of sample records, creating efficient workflows, assisting with development and troubleshooting of new protocols, and performing lab duties as necessary.

Job duties will include, but are not limited to:

• Carry out procedures associated with DNA & RNA sequencing on the Illumina sequencing platform, including DNA/RNA sample extraction, sample quantification & preparation, and library preparation;
• Perform quality control of the initial samples and sequencing ready final library samples;
• Track all work and issues in the appropriate databases/tracking sheets; and,
• Conduct other laboratory work, as needed.

• Assist in RNAseq library preparation, high and low input;
• Maintain the established Visium and RNAseq workflow with supervision;
• Assist with maintaining the imaging data and the inventory of samples;

Position Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or related field required;
• 2 years of experience in a molecular biology lab with at least 1+ years of demonstrated experience with next-generation sequencing library prep protocols and sequencing preferred;
• Solid knowledge of molecular biology equipment and related protocols (including RNA and DNA preparation, RNA and DNA quantification, hybridization, PCR, multiplex amplification, and bead-based solutions) highly preferred;
• Experience with microscopy is a plus;
• Familiarity with Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint required, preferably with Mac OS;
• Exposure to bioinformatics is preferred;
• Good general laboratory and organizational skills, including the ability to work independently and efficiently are required;
• Ability to multitask is required, along with an orientation toward teamwork and cooperation;
• Strong creative thinking and problem-solving skills are required; and,
• Excellent communication skills required.

Required Experience

Competencies

• Technical and Professional Skills: Consistently demonstrates skills and knowledge relevant for current role; strives to expand the depth and breadth of technical and professional skills; works with a high level of integrity; exhibits focus and discipline; appropriately prioritizes, manages expectations and delivers on commitments.

• Collaborative & Communicative: Models collaboration and teamwork; brings out the best in others; effectively works with all levels, internally and externally; respects and embraces diversity of perspective; communicates clearly and listens carefully; uses good judgment as to what to communicate and when to do so.

• Adaptable & Innovative: Adaptable and embraces change; develops new insights and pursues improvements and efficiency; fosters exchange of new ideas and willing to challenge the status quo; takes initiative and is solution-oriented; engages in work with passion and curiosity.

Salary & Benefits

The pay range for this position is $50k-$60k per year; the base pay offered may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

In addition, NYGC offers a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits as well as generous time off. This includes Medical/Dental/Vision for employees & dependent(s); Vacation, Holidays, Sick, and Other Leave, including a paid winter break; a 401(k) match; Life Insurance; Flexible Spending Accounts; employee Tuition Reimbursement; flexible schedules and telework options for some positions; an Employee Assistance Program; and much more.

About the Center for Genomics of Neurodegenerative Disease at the New York Genome Center

The Center for Genomics of Neurodegenerative Disease (CGND) is led by Dr. Hemali Phatnani, who holds a joint faculty appointment in Columbia University’s Department of Neurology. Dr. Phatnani’s lab is dedicated to the study of neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS and Dementia. The CGND at NYGC is the hub of a worldwide collaborative research effort centered on the genetics and genomics of ALS and FTD. The CGND’s vision is to integrate multiple data types, such as state-of-the-art spatial genomics and imaging methods and clinical and histopathological characterizations of postmortem tissue, to study mechanisms of age-related decline and neurodegenerative disease. The Phatnani lab uses Spatial Transcriptomics (ST) to deconvolve both spatial and cell-type specific gene expression in the central nervous system; simultaneously measuring gene expression changes across entire brain or spinal cord regions from human tissue while retaining spatial information. In conjunction with such transcriptome-wide approaches, the CGND and Innovation labs also developed tools and workflows to enable highly multiplexed, high-throughput spatially resolved immunofluorescence measurements on human tissue. The lab partners with several clinical centers within and outside the United States to apply these methods to the study of human postmortem tissue.

About the New York Genome Center

The New York Genome Center (NYGC) is an independent, nonprofit, academic research organization dedicated to advancing genomic research. NYGC scientists and staff are furthering new approaches to diagnosing and treating neurological diseases and cancer through their unique capabilities in whole genome sequencing, RNA sequencing, state-of-the art analytics, and the development of genomic tools. NYGC concentrates specifically on disease-based research in the following areas:  neuropsychiatric disease (autism, schizophrenia, bipolar); neurodegenerative disease (ALS, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s), and cancer.

Located in Lower Manhattan, the New York Genome Center was founded by and remains closely affiliated with the leading academic medical centers and research universities in the New York region, engaging in research projects with and for these institutions.  Essential to our collaborative work is an outstanding faculty, whose members typically hold a joint appointment at NYGC and a partner university. They support our scientific mission by conducting independent research in areas of mutual interest to us and the wider scientific community.

Please note: We care greatly about our employees’ wellbeing, so NYGC has moved to a fully COVID-19 vaccinated work environment. You must be vaccinated against COVID-19 to work at NYGC, even if you are working partially remotely. If you are selected to interview for this role, we will explain our vaccination policy (including medical and religious exemptions) and ensure you are comfortable moving forward with further interviews.

Equal Opportunity

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are central to the core mission at the NYGC. We strive to create a workplace environment that is welcoming and fair to all regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, physical ability, or religion. We believe that when people of various backgrounds, life experiences, and perspectives work together in an inclusive and equitable environment we gain new and valuable perspectives that otherwise would have been missed. Valuing and supporting all NYGC employees as individuals while helping them realize their full potential is critical to promoting greater collaboration, innovation, and discovery – fostering a sense of belonging for our greatest strength, our people. We recognize that there is still work to be done that will require sustained commitment from the entire organization.

The New York Genome Center is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, creed, color, gender, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic predisposition or carrier status, protected veteran or military status, domestic violence victim status, partnership status, caregiver status, alienage or citizenship status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. The New York Genome Center takes affirmative action in support of its policy to hire and advance in employment individuals who are minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities. 

FLSA Status – Exempt

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship or relocation assistance