Join Our Expedition
Our lab is built on the creativity and commitment of its members
We welcome motivated scientists at all career levels—postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, undergraduates, research staff, and visiting scholars—who are eager to push boundaries and grow as leaders in science.
We are committed to supporting every member with mentorship, resources, and opportunities needed to excel—from developing technical expertise to securing fellowships and advancing independent careers.
How to apply
Email Jay with:
- Curriculum vitae.
- Briefly describe your background, research interests, and career goals.
- Contact information for three references (including your current mentor).
Reference letters will be requested after an initial conversation.
The Positions
Postdoctoral Fellows
We welcome candidates with expertise in transcription and gene regulation, immunology, functional genomics, or AI/machine learning. Postdocs receive comprehensive mentorship, including guidance in grant writing, applications for NIH and other prestigious fellowships, networking, and preparation for careers in both academia and beyond. When needed, the lab can provide additional personnel support, creating opportunities to lead a small team and develop leadership skills.
Graduate Students
Graduate students must be admitted through a Columbia University graduate program first. Once accepted, please get in touch with us to discuss how your interests fit with the lab. Students will lead independent thesis projects, gain experience mentoring undergraduates, and receive guidance in grant writing and fellowship applications—including transition awards. We welcome students eager to learn new skills, take risks, and carve out a niche at the intersection of emerging disciplines and research areas.
Undergraduate Students
We welcome undergraduates who are excited to engage in research and contribute to the lab’s ongoing projects. Opportunities range from assisting with daily experiments to leading independent projects. Columbia students are encouraged to apply for internal research funding, while students from other institutions should consider funded summer research programs. Jay’s own scientific journey began with an undergraduate-led project, and we aim to provide similar formative opportunities for future scientists.
Research Associates
We invite motivated applicants for research staff and technician roles, including those exploring career transitions or bringing unique skills and perspectives. Prior experience in biomedical research, laboratory management, or animal colony management is desirable. Many who spend two years in this role gain immersive training in experimental design, data analysis, and lab operations. For recent graduates, this role provides a strong foundation for graduate or professional studies.
Visiting Scholars
We welcome visiting scholars whose expertise and interests complement our research and create opportunities for collaboration. Scholars are expected to engage fully with the lab and contribute to the ongoing projects in the lab. This program offers a chance to exchange knowledge and explore innovative questions at the intersections of mutual interest. Due to limited resources, we can only consider applicants who have secured independent funding at this time. A minimum stay of three months is required.
Support Our Work
Your encouragement means a lot to us.
We appreciate and welcome any contributions from those who wish to help advance our efforts.
Donations by check may be sent to:
Columbia University
Attn: Dig Bijay Mahat
116th Street & Broadway
New York, NY 10027
Kindly include “Mahat Lab” as the designation, either in the memo line or on a separate note, so your gift is directed appropriately.