Research Jobs at Howard Hughes Medical Institute | Life Sciences Careers
Embark on a transformative career in life sciences with an exciting opportunity at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. This Research Technician I role offers hands-on research experience, access to world-class scientific resources, and the chance to contribute to breakthrough discoveries in neuroscience and behavior analysis. Ideal for candidates seeking research jobs that build real-world skills, this position supports cutting-edge work at Columbia University while opening doors to future academic and professional growth.
About the Company
HHMI is a world-renowned biomedical research organization dedicated to advancing scientific discovery. The Institute supports a global network of scientists and educators working to expand understanding of biology. With a commitment to innovation, inclusion, and excellence, HHMI provides researchers with the tools, support, and environment needed to push scientific boundaries and inspire future generations.
Job Details
- Job Title: Research Technician I – Gadagkar Lab
- Location: Columbia University
- Time Type: Full Time
- Posted: 30+ Days Ago
- Job Requisition ID: R-3819
Primary Work Address: HHMI/Columbia University | Shadlen Lab–L5-003, New York, NY, 10027
The Gadagkar Lab at Columbia University (HHMI Freeman Hrabowski Scholar appointment beginning Oct 1, 2025) studies how the brain evaluates behaviors using the songbird courtship system, combining computational, theoretical, and experimental approaches. The lab aims to uncover fundamental principles of brain function relevant to neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and autism.
About the Role
The Research Technician I will support scientific research by performing experiments, maintaining the bird colony, and assisting with general lab operations. Ideal for candidates seeking 2+ years of hands-on research experience before graduate or medical school.
What You’ll Do in Research Jobs
- Work collaboratively with scientists across multiple projects.
- Perform lab techniques, operate instruments, and assist with experiments.
- Manage care and monitoring of the lab’s bird colony.
- Conduct histology, animal husbandry, and data analysis.
- Collect, organize, and verify research data; prepare graphs and reports.
- Participate in lab meetings and planning sessions.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized lab environment.
What You Bring
- Bachelor’s degree in life sciences (required).
- Prior hands-on lab research experience (required).
- Experience with animal husbandry and data analysis (required).
- Histology experience (preferred).
- Electrophysiology or programming experience (MATLAB/Python) (plus).
- Strong communication, teamwork, organization, and attention to detail.
- Motivation to learn and grow with mentorship.
Physical Requirements
Ability to sit/stand for extended periods; manual dexterity; ability to lift small items; normal vision/hearing; potential exposure to lab hazards. Reasonable accommodations available.
Compensation for Research Jobs
Hourly Range:
- Minimum: $19.24
- Midpoint: $24.09
- Maximum: $31.29
Pay determined based on education, experience, skills, and internal equity.





