Associate Research Scientist, Technology Development

The Technology Development Lab at NYGC conducts cutting-edge research through scientific collaboration, focusing on innovative single cell and spatial multi-omics technologies. An Associate Research Scientist in the Technology Development Lab will work with a highly motivated team towards the discovery, development and implementation of state-of-the-art genomics technologies and methodologies. The ideal candidate has a background in Molecular or Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or related fields, with experience in handling tissue for molecular biology and single cell-based assays. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are required, as well as the ability to thrive in a fast-paced and shifting environment. This position will report to the Lead Research Scientist in the Technology Development Lab.

Key Responsibilities include (but are not limited to):

• Develop and carry out protocols for tissue processing, single-cell suspension preparation, and nuclei isolation from fresh and archival samples;
• Develop and implement protocols for tissue sectioning, staining and imaging in the context of contemporary histology and spatial multi-omics methods;
• Perform quality control assessments on samples' feasibility for different single-cell and other NGS methods;
• Prepare and complete single-cell multi-omics workflows (sc/snRNA-Seq, Multiome, ECCITE-Seq, DOGMA-Seq) using different types of specimens;
• Contribute to troubleshooting and improving both new and established methods and protocols by performing experiments and other tasks;
• Work with internal and external research groups to conduct experiments using cutting-edge techniques, in the context of collaborations and grants;
• Communicate updates and improvements needed on a regular basis to the Lead Research Scientist;
• Assist senior team members with experiments and projects as solicited;
• Report progress and present data in internal and external meetings;
• Maintain detailed, reliable, and timely laboratory records - tracking all work and issues in the appropriate databases/tracking sheets and/or electronic lab notebook;
• Take an active part in lab meetings, sharing and improving the knowledge of the team and obtaining information relevant to the team's goals;
• Maintain significant knowledge of current scientific literature and be a source of knowledge for the team and the rest of the center in applying molecular biology tools to solve specific research problems; and,
• Demonstrate initiative in identifying opportunities for research and collaboration, working independently, actively and creatively to design and execute strategies to address them.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Requirements & Qualifications

• PhD in Molecular or Cell Biology, or related discipline, or MSc with at least 3 years of relevant work experience in a biological science lab with a strong Cell or Molecular Biology focus;
• Experience handling tissue, including dissociation, isolation, single cell/nuclei suspension preparation, DNA and RNA extraction and quantification;
• Expertise in one or more cell biology disciplines, including but not limited to: flow cytometry analysis and/or sorting, cell-based assays, histology, tissue staining and imaging, microscopy;
• Understanding and familiarity with modern molecular biology tools, such as sample and library preparation and quality control assessment for single cell and other NGS methods are a plus;
• Proven attention to detail and experience in designing and executing experiments in a timely manner;
• Evidence of authorship and contribution to peer-reviewed publications;
• Ability to work in an independent manner but having a strong collaborative personality, striving to be a team player;
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced and shifting environment on an interdisciplinary team and actively collaborate across several functional teams to develop and implement innovative new technologies into production;
• Excellent communication skills and experience in summarizing and presenting complex data in simple terms;
• Excellent analytical and organizational skills, including strong time management and prioritization; and,
• Strong computing skills are a plus.

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.

Work Flexibility

NYGC has established a flexible work policy to give employees and other staff more ability to balance their work, personal commitments, and commuting challenges.

Salary & Benefits

The expected pay for the position is $80,000, with a pay range of $71,000 - 88,000 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 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 NYGC's core mission. 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. NYGC 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 eligible for relocation assistance.