Eligibility
Full-time graduate students with a valid work authorization can be hired as Department Research Assistant to work on research projects.
Students must have an appointment before they can start working. In addition, all Columbia employees must have a valid U.S. work authorization and a Social Security Number (SSN). International students who do not have a SSN, can request a Social Security Verification Form from ISERP to apply for a number with the Social Security Administration.
Appointment Limits
Full-time graduate students attending Columbia may only work up to a combined total of 20 hours per week during the academic year. Any work outside of your DRA role in ISERP must be accounted for in advance, to ensure you stay within the allowable amount of hours. The allowable hours may vary for Student Visa Holders, please confirm with the International Students and Scholars Office for the hours you are allowed to work. Students cannot hold more than two positions at any one time.
Appointment Checklist
Department Research Assistant- Hire Checklist
Payroll
These are semi-monthly, salaried positions. You can expect to receive payments on the 15th and last day of each month during which you are appointed. ISERP highly recommends hired students to set up Direct Deposit, or you will need to pick up your paper checks in room 370F IAB after being notified via email. Please bring ID when you sign out your check.
Benefits and Leaves
Please refer to Columbia’s Benefits Department for guidance and information on your benefits. You can contact the Benefits Center at:
Telephone: 212-851-7000
Secure Fax: 212-851-7025
Email: hrbenefits@columbia.edu
Mailing Address: 615 West 131st Street, Mail code 8703
Studebaker Building, 4th Floor
New York, NY 10027