Staff Associate I

Position Summary

We are part of the Department of Systems Biology, the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, and the Motor Neuron Center at Columbia University Medical Center. We are interested in the RNA regulatory networks in the nervous system to understand the mammalian complexity manifested in evolutionary-developmental processes and several neuronal disorders.

The lab takes a multidisciplinary approach that tightly integrates high-throughput biochemistry, genomics, and computational approaches. The Staff Associate will be responsible for projects related to investigating the crosslinking signatures from CLIP-seq. The work includes applying bioinformatics tools and software packages for sequence analysis, motif discovery, and other analyses in collaboration with the research group.

Duties

• Apply bioinformatics tools and software packages for sequence analysis, motif discovery, and other analyses. Perform statistical analyses and develop computational methods. Employ available algorithms or packages for data analysis.
• Participate in regular project meetings, discussions, and presentations, providing updates on progress.
• Contribute to the preparation of scientific manuscripts, reports, proposals, and presentations.
• Collaboration with external partners or collaborators, as necessary, to further the research objectives.

Functional Knowledge

Solid understanding of molecular biology, particularly in the areas of RNA biology, and protein-RNA interactions. Uses that knowledge to solve complex problems and find new perspectives. Interacts daily with scientists to provide technical expertise. (30%)

Problem Solving

Able to apply analytical skills to help problem-solve with senior staff associates and directors. (20%)

Decision Making/Autonomy

Work independently and as part of a collaborative research team. Expected to show a medium level of initiative and independent judgement. (10%)

Technical Expertise

Required to develop and implement bioinformatics pipelines for the analysis of CLIP-seq data. Strong background in programming languages such as Python, R, or similar, with expertise in analysis. (20%)

Communication

Strong communication skills, both written and verbal. Contributing to the preparation of scientific manuscripts, reports, proposals, and presentations. (20%)

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in specific research field and 4 years experience preferred