Research Technician - Gadagkar Lab

The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) advances the discovery and sharing of scientific knowledge to benefit us all. As a biomedical research organization and philanthropy, HHMI supports a vibrant community of academic researchers, educators, students, and professionals. Together, we’re unlocking the fundamentals of biology and building an open, inclusive future for science.

The lab of Dr. Vikram Gadagkar, Freeman Hrabowski Scholar at Columbia University , is seeking a Research Technician to support scientific research projects and activities. The Gadagkar lab’s goal is to combine the advantages of the songbird courtship system with state-of-the-art computational, theoretical, and experimental approaches to discover how brains evaluate behaviors, both self-generated and the behaviors of others. By discovering fundamental principles of brain function, they aim to provide insight into neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease and autism. More information about the lab team and their work can be found by visiting

About the Research Technician role:
As the Research Technician I, you are an organized, responsible, teamwork-oriented individual who can work collaboratively with graduate students, postdocs, other technicians, and Dr. Gadagkar in support of the lab’s research goals. This role will be responsible for setting up and performing various techniques and experiments as well as assisting with general laboratory maintenance. This is an excellent opportunity for an enthusiastic, self-motivated professional looking for a robust 2-year career experience before moving on to the next chapter of their professional or educational journey.

What we provide:

• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and wellness benefits.

• Exposure to outstanding science and the opportunity to grow your research skills by learning new techniques.

• Joining a strong, collaborative team that fosters a positive and inclusive lab culture.

• Hands-on training, mentorship, and professional development.

• Opportunities for authorship/co-authorship on research publications.

• Opportunities to participate in meetings and other events.

• Access to state-of-the-art technology and equipment.

What you’ll do:

• Work collaboratively with and support a team of scientists conducting a variety of research projects.

• Conduct behavioral assays and data processing.

• Perform surgical manipulations and tissue collection procedures following established lab protocols.

• Perform routine lab tasks such as histology (vibratome sectioning, IHC, slide imaging).

• Assist with bird colony care and management.

• Participate in laboratory meetings and planning sessions.

• Order chemicals, reagents, and other laboratory supplies as needed.

• Assist with general lab operations and organizational support as needed to help maintain a safe, clean, orderly, and efficient lab environment.

What you bring:

• A bachelor’s degree in the life sciences is required.

• Some previous hands-on research experience in a lab environment is required.

• Previous experience working in a neuroscience-focused lab would be a plus, but is not required.

• Ability to work well with a wide variety of people at all levels and from all backgrounds.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and teamwork skills.

• Strong attention to detail, strong time management skills, and strong prioritization skills.

• Proactive approach to work with an eagerness to learn, grow professionally, and be mentored.

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Work may involve possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances or other hazardous materials.

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act. #LI-NG1