Development Associate
Listed on 2026-02-01
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Non-Profit & Social Impact
Position Description
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL) is a globally recognized research and education institution at the forefront of scientific breakthroughs in cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, autism, and more. Our collaborative culture fuels innovation that improves human health—and philanthropy plays a vital role in powering this work.
We’re looking for a Development Associate to join our dynamic Development team. This is an exciting opportunity for an early-career professional (1–2 years of experience) eager to grow in the nonprofit space, especially in fundraising, events, and donor engagement. In this full-time, onsite role based at our scenic Long Island campus, you’ll work closely with the Senior Director of Development on two high-impact initiatives:
Planning and executing fundraising events that connect donors with world-class scientists
Coordinating the Corporate Advisory Board, a group of influential business leaders who champion our mission
If you’re organized, proactive, and passionate about connecting people to meaningful causes, we’d love to hear from you. At CSHL, you’ll help fund cutting-edge research that transforms lives—all while working in a vibrant, team-oriented environment that values both purpose and fun.
Position Responsibilities- Assist in the planning, coordination, and execution of Development events, including signature fundraising events, donor cultivation gatherings, corporate receptions, and more.
- Oversee event logistics such as timelines, invitations, RSVPs, vendor coordination, and on-site support.
- Serve as the primary staff liaison for the Corporate Advisory Board —supporting member communications, meeting logistics, follow-ups, and engagement activities.
- Help draft event-related materials, including invitations, programs, web content, and donor communications.
- Help manage the Development Office’s social media presence , including its Instagram account, to creatively showcase events, donor stories, and the impact of giving.
- Assist with fundraising campaigns and stewardship activities.
- Conduct prospect research and help maintain accurate donor records in the database.
- Be able to take projects from idea to execution to follow-up, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.
- Support additional projects and initiatives led by the Senior Director of Development.
- Bachelor’s degree required.
- 1-2 years of experience in fundraising, event planning, marketing, or related fields (internships welcome).
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Strong writing and communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
- Collaborative, positive attitude with a strong sense of professionalism and discretion.
- Passion for CSHL’s mission and excitement about working in a nonprofit setting.
- Familiarity with donor databases (like Raiser’s Edge) is a plus.
Why Join Our Team?
- Be part of a mission-driven organization that’s making an impact on major diseases.
- Gain hands-on experience in all aspects of fundraising and events, with opportunities for mentorship and growth.
- Work in a beautiful, historic setting alongside world-class researchers.
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
Ready to bring your energy and passion to our team?
Apply today and help advance the groundbreaking work of CSHL scientists.
Position
Environment
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory is a world-renowned biomedical research institution in New York. It has shaped contemporary biomedical research and is the home of eight Nobel Prize laureates. Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory provides a highly dynamic and interactive research environment and also a unique opportunity of timely exposure to advances in various biomedical research fields and of interaction with a broad range of researchers from all over the world through its renowned Meetings and Courses program.
We believe that science is for everyone and our researchers have a wide variety of backgrounds.
Compensation and Benefits
Our employees are compensated in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health…
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