Research Assistant

Technical Grade 5

• Job Type: Support Staff - Union
• Bargaining Unit: SSA
• Regular/Temporary:
  Regular
• Hours Per Week: 35
• Salary Range: $61,692 - $61,692

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.

The Research Assistant will play a key role in supporting clinical and epidemiological research within the Division of Infectious Diseases at Columbia University Irving Medical Center (CUIMC). This position focuses on studies related to HIV prevention and treatment, vaccine development, and other infectious diseases such as COVID-19 and sexually transmitted infections. The Research Assistant will work closely with investigators, clinicians, and a multidisciplinary research team to ensure the successful execution of research protocols.

Responsibilities include participant recruitment and engagement, informed consent, data collection and management, and coordination of study visits. The role also involves handling biological specimens, maintaining regulatory compliance, and contributing to the development of educational materials for participants and healthcare providers. This position offers an opportunity to gain hands‑on experience in clinical research, public health, and infectious disease prevention while working in a collaborative academic environment.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse populations. Funding for this position is contingent upon grant support.

• Administer questionnaires and collect clinical and laboratory data.
• Schedule study visits and maintain accurate records in EMR and research databases.
• Collect, label, and process biological specimens following protocol and safety guidelines.
• Prepare study materials and assist with the development of educational resources.
• Ensure compliance with SOPs, sponsor requirements, and quality assurance standards.
• Enter and validate data; assist with data analysis and reporting.
• Support participant retention strategies and follow‑up activities.
• Coordinate with the pharmacy for study product pickup and documentation.
• Assist with clinic operations, including inventory and equipment maintenance.
• Communicate effectively with investigators, staff, and participants.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's degree and at least 1.5 years of related experience or equivalent in education, training, and experience.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.

• Experience discussing sexual health and behaviors with adult populations.
• Knowledge of HIV and STI prevention strategies.
• Familiarity with research data management systems.
• Proficiency in Spanish.
• Phlebotomy training.

• The candidate selected for this position is required to undergo a drug screening test prior to a final offer of employment being made.
• Medical clearance and participation in the medical surveillance program.
• Contact with patients and/or human research subjects.
• Potential blood borne pathogen exposure.
• Wear N-95 respirator.
• Successful completion of applicable compliance and system training requirements.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.