Bassett Research Institute Jobs & Careers

🎓 Overview of Jobs at Bassett Research Institute

Bassett Research Institute (BRI), located in the charming village of Cooperstown, New York, stands as a cornerstone of biomedical research within the Bassett Healthcare Network. Nestled in the scenic Catskill Mountains region of upstate New York, BRI focuses on advancing health outcomes, particularly in rural communities. Jobs at Bassett Research Institute attract scientists, clinicians, and support staff passionate about translational research—work that bridges laboratory discoveries to patient care. Whether you're seeking research scientist positions, postdoctoral fellowships, or laboratory technician roles, opportunities here emphasize innovation in areas like cancer, neuroscience, and musculoskeletal health.

The institute's affiliation with Columbia University's College of Physicians and Surgeons provides researchers access to world-class resources while maintaining a collaborative, community-oriented environment. With Cooperstown's population under 2,000, the setting offers a unique blend of professional rigor and small-town tranquility, ideal for those prioritizing work-life integration. Current openings often include research jobs funded by National Institutes of Health (NIH) grants, making BRI a hub for federally supported biomedical advancements.

History of Bassett Research Institute

Founded in 1952 as the research arm of Bassett Hospital (now Bassett Medical Center), BRI has evolved from basic clinical studies to a nationally recognized center for rural health research. In the 1960s, it pioneered orthopedic investigations, leading to breakthroughs in joint replacement techniques still used today. By the 1980s, expansion into neuroscience and oncology solidified its reputation, with over 200 peer-reviewed publications annually from its labs.

A pivotal moment came in 2003 with the opening of a state-of-the-art facility, doubling research space and attracting top talent. Today, BRI employs around 100 researchers, contributing to the network's mission of serving 250,000 residents across 16 counties in central New York. This history underscores the stability and growth potential for long-term careers in higher-ed jobs focused on impactful science.

Research Focus Areas at Bassett Research Institute

BRI's work centers on four pillars: musculoskeletal disease, neuroscience, cancer biology, and population health in rural settings. For instance, the Orthopedic Research Lab studies bone regeneration using stem cell models, while the Neuroscience Center investigates Alzheimer's biomarkers through advanced imaging.

Cancer research targets gastric and prostate malignancies, collaborating with the New York State American Institute of Gastric Cancer and Surgery. Rural health projects address disparities like opioid addiction and telemedicine efficacy, reflecting Cooperstown's location. These areas drive jobs at Bassett Research Institute, where teams use cutting-edge tools like CRISPR gene editing and mass spectrometry.

Types of Jobs at Bassett Research Institute

Positions span entry-level to senior leadership. Research assistants handle experiments and data collection, while scientists lead projects and secure funding. Postdoctoral researchers (postdocs)—temporary roles for recent PhDs to gain independence—thrive here, often transitioning to faculty tracks. Clinical research coordinators manage trials, and administrative roles support grants.

For a full breakdown of university job types, including faculty and staff distinctions, visit our resource page. Salaries average $60,000-$120,000 annually, competitive for New York's rural economy, with benefits like relocation assistance.

• Research Scientist: Designs studies, publishes findings.
• Postdoctoral Fellow: Advanced training in specialized labs.
• Lab Technician: Daily operations, sample prep.
• Bioinformatician: Analyzes genomic data.

📊 Required Qualifications, Research Focus, Experience, and Skills

Jobs at Bassett Research Institute demand strong academic credentials. Senior roles require a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in biology, biomedical engineering, or related fields; master's for mid-level, bachelor's for technicians.

Research focus aligns with BRI's pillars—expertise in rural health epidemiology or neurogenetics is prized. Preferred experience includes 3+ years in academia or industry, 5+ publications in journals like Journal of Bone and Mineral Research, and grant success (e.g., NIH R01 awards).

Key skills: Statistical software (R, Python), molecular techniques (qPCR, Western blot), ethical compliance (IRB protocols), and teamwork. Soft skills like communication for cross-disciplinary projects are vital.

Definitions

Translational Research: Process converting basic lab findings into clinical applications, central to BRI's mission.

Postdoctoral Fellowship (Postdoc): 1-5 year position post-PhD for skill-building and publications. See postdoctoral success guide.

IRB (Institutional Review Board): Committee approving human subject research for ethics.

NIH Grant: Funding from National Institutes of Health supporting U.S. biomedical projects.

Application Process and Tips

Apply through Bassett's portal or platforms like AcademicJobs.com. Submit CV, cover letter, references, and research statement. Interviews involve seminars and lab tours.

• Tailor documents to BRI's rural focus—highlight relevant experience.
• Network at conferences like American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
• Prepare for behavioral questions: "Describe a failed experiment and resolution."
• Use academic CV tips for formatting.
• Follow up post-interview; relocation support available for Cooperstown moves.

Timeline: Postings close in 4-6 weeks; starts within 3 months.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

BRI commits to equity via the Bassett Healthcare Network's Diversity Council, offering mentorship for underrepresented groups. The Women in Research program provides leadership training, with 40% female staff since 2018. Partnerships with HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) recruit diverse postdocs. Annual cultural events in Cooperstown celebrate inclusivity, aligning with NIH diversity supplements.

Work-Life Balance and Campus Life

In Cooperstown, a National Historic Landmark village, BRI's campus features modern labs amid Glimmerglass Lake views. Flexible schedules (core hours 9-3), 4 weeks PTO, and parental leave support balance. Wellness includes gym access, yoga, and EAP (Employee Assistance Program). Community perks: Farmers markets, Baseball Hall of Fame proximity, low crime. Housing averages $1,200/month rent, far below NYC. Social committees organize hikes and pub nights, fostering camaraderie in this tight-knit rural academic hub.

Why Pursue Jobs at Bassett Research Institute?

BRI offers meaningful impact in underserved areas, career growth via Columbia ties, and idyllic living. Explore higher-ed jobs, higher-ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job on AcademicJobs.com for more opportunities.