Associate Scientist I, Functional Perturbation Lab

The Functional Perturbation Lab at NYGC supports cutting-edge research through scientific collaboration, focusing on large-scale multimodal single-cell perturbation experiments. The Associate Scientist I will support experiments spanning mammalian cell culture, CRISPR-based perturbation, single-cell sample preparation, library generation, and experimental quality control.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in molecular biology, with experience in single-cell genomics or CRISPR technology preferred. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are required, as this role will actively collaborate across multiple groups to plan experiments, develop technologies, and produce high-quality data. The ability to adapt to changing scientific priorities while maintaining experimental rigor and organization is essential.

This position offers an early-career scientist the opportunity to develop broad expertise across molecular biology, cell biology, functional genomics, and single-cell technologies while taking on increasing experimental responsibility. The role is well suited to an ambitious individual seeking rigorous research experience and mentorship in preparation for advanced scientific training or a long-term career in biotechnology or genomics.

This position will report to the Functional Perturbation Lab lead investigator.

Key Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

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  Perform commercial and custom single-cell assays, including cell preparation, sample quality control, library preparation, and sequencing library quality control.

  
  
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  Maintain mammalian cell cultures and perform cell counting, viability assessment, transfection or transduction, selection, and preparation of samples for downstream assays.

  
  
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  Support CRISPR-based perturbation workflows, including construct preparation, lentiviral production, transduction optimization, selection, and evaluation of perturbation efficiency.

  
  
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  Perform molecular biology workflows, including construct assembly, bacterial transformation, plasmid preparation and verification, lentiviral packaging, DNA and RNA purification, PCR amplification, sequencing library preparation, and antibody conjugation.

  
  
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  Contribute to the development, optimization, and troubleshooting of new and established methods by planning and executing controlled experiments, interpreting quality-control results, identifying potential sources of failure, and recommending next steps.

  
  
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  Take increasing ownership of experimental workflows, from planning and reagent preparation through execution, quality control, documentation, and communication of results.

  
  
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  Coordinate samples, reagents, timelines, and experimental metadata across concurrent collaborative projects.

  
  
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  Maintain up-to-date standard operating procedures and revise them as needed.

  
  
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  Collaborate closely with colleagues throughout NYGC.

  
  
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  Maintain detailed, reliable, and timely laboratory records

  
  
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  Assist with routine maintenance of laboratory equipment and actively contribute to laboratory cleanliness, organization, and compliance with safety procedures.

  
  

Requirements and Qualifications

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  Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or a related field required.

  
  
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  At least two years of hands-on experience in a molecular biology, cell biology, genomics, or related research laboratory required.

  
  
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  Demonstrated proficiency in at least one relevant experimental area, such as mammalian cell culture, molecular cloning, or single-cell genomics, required.

  
  
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  Working knowledge of core molecular biology methods, including DNA and RNA purification, nucleic acid quantification, PCR, and gel electrophoresis, required.

  
  
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  Experience with CRISPR perturbation, lentiviral production or transduction, single-cell sample preparation, flow cytometry, or next-generation sequencing library preparation preferred but not required.

  
  
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  Demonstrated ability to learn unfamiliar techniques, troubleshoot experiments systematically, and progress toward independent execution required.

  
  
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  Excellent experimental judgment and attention to detail, including the ability to recognize unexpected results, potential technical problems, and gaps in experimental controls.

  
  
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  Excellent laboratory and organizational skills, including the ability to work independently, carefully, and efficiently.

  
  
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  Ability to prioritize and coordinate multiple experimental workflows, anticipate upcoming needs, and communicate promptly when timelines or results change.

  
  
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  Strong initiative, problem-solving ability, communication skills, accurate bench technique, and commitment to continued scientific development.

  
  
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  An orientation toward teamwork, cooperation, and shared scientific goals.

  
  

Competencies

Technical and Professional Skills: Consistently demonstrates skills and knowledge relevant to the 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 and Communicative: Models collaboration and teamwork; brings out the best in others; works effectively with colleagues at all levels, internally and externally; respects and embraces diversity of perspective; communicates clearly and listens carefully; and uses good judgment regarding what to communicate and when to do so.

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

Salary

The salary range for this position is $53,000- $66,000 per year. 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.

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.

Equal Opportunity

We are committed to fostering a workplace environment that is welcoming and fair to all, ensuring that every employee has the opportunity to thrive. We believe that bringing together individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives leads to greater collaboration, innovation, and discovery. Valuing and supporting each employee in reaching their full potential strengthens our organization and enhances our collective success. We recognize that creating an environment where all employees feel valued and included requires sustained effort and dedication 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. NYGC takes affirmative action in support of its policy to hire and advance in employment individuals who are protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.