Associate Research Scientist

A 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 Research Scientist to join our team and contribute to cutting-edge research in stem cell technology and biofabrication. This role offers an exciting opportunity to work at the intersection of iPSC biology, cell manufacturing, and advanced 3D printing technologies. Please see our website for more information: gvnlab.bme.columbia.edu

The ideal candidate will bring hands-on expertise in pluripotent stem cell culture, quality control processes, and external partnership management. They will be responsible for establishing and maintaining iPSC culture systems, including expansion protocols and comprehensive characterization assays to ensure cell quality and proper differentiation. They must also be self-motivated and quick learners able to learn novel 3D bioprinting technologies to develop novel tissue constructs. An ability to manage external relationships, coordinate study designs, and oversee deliverables is crucial as this project will be fast paced and involve multiple collaborators at different institutions.

Stem Cell Culture & Tissue Engineering:

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

Maintain standardized protocols for reproducibility and quality assurance.

Learn and maintain GMP conditions and protocols.

Collaborate with engineering teams to align engineering design with experimental needs.

50%

Management of External Partnerships:

Coordinate with partner institutions for protocol and knowledge transfers.

Establish and adapt partner protocols for internal use.

Participate and lead project updates for external stakeholders.

25%

Testing, Analysis & Documentation:

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

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

Contribute to grant applications, patents, and conference presentations to disseminate findings.

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 iPSC culture, including expansion, differentiation, and characterization techniques (immunocytochemistry, flow cytometry, gene expression analysis)

* Hands-on experience with 3D printing technologies, preferably bioprinting or hydrogel-based fabrication systems

* Proven track record managing CRO partnerships or collaborative research projects

* Strong background in quality control methodologies and documentation practices

* Self-motivated 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

* Experience with GMP or GLP environments

* Proficiency in image analysis and data visualization software

Familiarity with iPSC liver protocols

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.