Position Description

 The Columbia Nano Initiative’s Shared Materials Characterization Lab (SMCL) houses advanced characterization instruments in nanotechnology for studying material properties. The SMCL director oversees this facility, operating independently but reporting to the senior director of the CNI labs, within the broader CNI labs team.

They must demonstrate mastery in surface characterization tools such as X-ray crystallography, spectrophotometers, ellipsometry, atomic force microscopy, and more. Additionally, they adapt to and master new characterization techniques as required.

They support research projects of users of the lab, develop new characterization protocols to aid advanced research projects, and solve complex problems. The SMCL director educates lab users on experiment planning and instrument operation, optimizing equipment configurations for research needs. They provide assistance and instruction with data analyses and interpretation.

The SMCL director is responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of all characterization tools in the lab. This includes performing certain repairs in-house, and coordinating larger repairs with the equipment vendors.

The SMCL director participates in identifying grants, writing proposals, and raising funds for instrument acquisition and upgrades, as well as other research proposals relevant to the SMCL. Budget planning and user fee collection are also integral to maintaining the lab’s financial stability and operational costs recovery.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications for Staff Associate:

A bachelor's degree in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science and Engineering, or related field with a minimum of 10 years of research experience in a scientific lab using characterization equipment is required. A Ph.D. and at least 5 years of working experience is acceptable.   

Additional desired qualifications include:

More than 5 years of research experience with a Ph.D. in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science and Engineering, or a related field. Understanding of new and advanced laboratory characterization and metrology techniques is desired. Preferred experience should include equipment operation, maintenance, and data interpretation. The SMCL director should be able to perform literature surveys to understand scientific data.

Excellent interpersonal skills and strong communication skills are desired-the staff associate/senior staff associate will serve as a primary interface to SMCL users. 

Other highly desired attributes include: excellent analytical reasoning and problem solving skills; good organizational skills; ability to work with interruptions; ability to work independently with minimal supervision but also as part of a team; Knowledge of safety and working procedures with hazardous gases and chemicals is an advantage.

Application Instructions

To be considered, all applicants MUST apply directly through the Columbia University website through the following link: apply.interfolio.com/150004

 No third party applications will be considered.

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.

Salary Range or Pay Grade

$100,000 - $120,000

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Columbia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran