Next, they must bring the required original documents to the I-9 processing center in 210 Kent Hall. The staff at the processing center will verify their employment eligibility and complete section 2 of the form. International students complete this form at the International Students Office (ISSO). Research Assistants are not eligible for pay until they have completed their I-9.
Who May Serve
The typical research assistant is a Columbia Law student, but students in other divisions comprise a sizable minority. From time to time people other than Columbia students have served as researchers, but costs are higher and various restrictions may apply.
Please be aware that the person you select may not have full access to services and facilities. Columbia Law students have access, and students in other divisions are easily accommodated. However, non-Columbians will face challenges ranging from physical access to network access to library privileges and may not be able to meet your needs.
The research assistant must be legally able to work in the US and produce documents that prove it. Therefore, US citizens and permanent residents as well as Columbia (but not TC) students on F-1 visas form the pool. Please note that most other non-resident aliens may not work as paid research assistants.
Full time Columbia employees generally cannot be paid for this work. But if you must hire a Columbia employee that person should get full assurance from her employing department that payment will be possible.
Selection and Hiring
Selection of research assistants is up to each faculty member. Anna Colliton, a counselor in the Office of Career Services, x4-5672, will help. Once selected, the research assistant should immediately go to the HR Office (6th floor - W&J Warren) to complete payroll forms.
Payment
Research assistants are paid at the rate of $12 per hour. Research assistant hours are reported to the HR Office every two weeks on time sheets signed by the faculty supervisor.
The federal College Work/Study Program provides important support for this program, and all eligible students will be asked to participate.
Wages paid to people other than Columbia students are taxed to support the fringe benefits pool at the rate of 31.1%. Therefore, non-students cost $15.73 an hour instead of $12 an hour and will reduce your available hours to 305 instead of 400.
