Staff Associate I

Position Summary

The Biomarkers Core Laboratory of the Irving Institute for Clinical and Translational Research seeks a Staff Associate (SAI) with expertise in multiplex Luminex technology to support immunoassay operations in a high-throughput core laboratory environment. The Staff Associate will support the execution of established immunoassays, routine instrument operation, sample handling, and high-quality data acquisition in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs) under the supervision of the lab director.

Duties

• 60%: Perform multiplex immunoassays using Luminex platforms in accordance with established SOPs, including plate preparation, instrument calibration/verification, troubleshooting, and data acquisition. Execute ELISA assays following standard operating procedures and vendor protocols. Perform clinical chemistry assays on automated analyzers (e.g., Roche platforms) according to established procedures, including calibration, QC review, routine maintenance, and documentation of results. Prepare reagents, calibrators, and controls; perform QC checks and ensure assay acceptance criteria are met across all platforms. Support routine assay verification activities and monitor instrument performance. Use established data acquisition and processing software (e.g., xPONENT, Analyst) to generate reports. Interact with investigators and clinical study coordinators to support sample management and pre-analytical workflows.

• 20%: Interact with investigators and clinical study coordinators to support sample management and pre-analytical workflows.
• 20%: Assist with blood processing, biobanking, and sample handling activities as needed.

Functional Knowledge

• Hands-on experience with the Luminex 200 platform and multiplex kits from Millipore, Thermo, and R&D Systems.
• Extensive experience with data processing software such as xPONENT and Analyst for the analysis of large datasets.

Problem Solving

• Familiarity with assay troubleshooting, QC interpretation, instrument maintenance, and method verification.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities, organizational and communication skills, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

Decision Making/Autonomy (Must equal 10)

* Level of supervision required, on a scale of 1 (least) to 10 (most) -#4

* Degree of independent judgment expected, on a scale of 1 (least) to 10 (most) - #6

Leadership

* No supervisory responsibilities

Technical Expertise

• Experience performing clinical chemistry assays on automated analyzers.
• Prior experience in a core facility, clinical laboratory, or high-throughput research environment.
• Strong attention to detail, adherence to SOPs, and commitment to high-quality data.

Communication Skills

• Excellent oral and written English communication
• Shares information and confirmation of data

* Bachelor's degree

* 2 years of experience in a related field

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.