Reproductive Biology Technician

Technician IV

(Band D – Nonexempt)

Department of Animal Science

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS)

Ithaca, New York

Who We Are

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) is a pioneer of purpose-driven science and Cornell University’s second-largest college. We work across disciplines to tackle the challenges of our time through world-renowned research, education, and outreach. The questions we probe and the answers we seek focus on three overlapping concerns: natural and human systems; food, energy, and environmental resources; and social, physical, and economic well-being.

The Department of Animal Science’s mission is to discover and disseminate new knowledge about the biology and management of domestic animals and to apply this knowledge to benefit society. Our department is devoted to undergraduate and graduate teaching, research, extension, and outreach.

Dr. Athena Ren’s research’s current focus includes vascular remodeling during ovulation and luteal function, and immune cell function in the sexual maturation of the pituitary gland. The lab utilizes molecular and cellular biology approaches in transgenic mice, human cell lines, and tissues from domestic species. More information about the research can be found – http://blogs.cornell.edu/renlab/.

What You Will Do

We are seeking a talented individual that wants to have an impact on reproductive and endocrine health. You will assist the Principal Investigator in the planning, design, and implementation of research experiments. Additionally, you will perform laboratory experiments and test experimental methods such as the manipulation and analyses of DNA, RNA, and proteins, as well as molecular cloning. Specific duties include:

• Evaluating lab methods, procedures, and techniques and making recommendations for improvements.
• Providing overall maintenance of the lab as well as coordinating purchases of laboratory equipment and materials.
• Developing and validating new analytical methods.
• Assisting in the preparation of manuscripts and grant proposals.
• Writing laboratory operating procedures and ensure they comply with current safety regulations.
• Providing general direction and hands-on educational activities to Visiting Scientists, Postdoctoral Associates, and undergraduate and graduate students.

What We Need

We are looking for an individual that enjoys working in a laboratory setting. We need someone with strong customer service skills with a focus on excellence and can build relationships with multiple stakeholders. Additionally, we need someone who has:

• Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences or related field and 2+ years of research and/or lab management experience or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Proficiency in basic computer programs (Microsoft Word, Excel, etc.).
• Experience in data collection and analysis, using basic statistical tools for analyzing data.
• Self-motivated to challenge him/herself in this position.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to interact with technical personnel.
• Ability to work independently and take initiative.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety protocols and guidelines.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Able to occasionally work irregular hours.
• Experience in collection of data and preparation of summaries and final reports.
• Ability to keep the equipment, materials, and lab organized.
• Ability to contribute to an inclusive, high-quality and respectful work environment in a team setting and independently to achieve departmental and university goals.
• Exercise sound and ethical judgment when acting on behalf of the University.
• Must possess strong organizational and written and oral communication skills and take pride in their work.
• Demonstrated ability to develop effective working relationships with a wide variety of students, faculty, and staff.

If you possess these experiences and skills, this may be the role for you! There are a few other qualifications that we would view as incredibly helpful in this role, including:

• 3+ years of experience in working with live animals, laboratory mice in particular.
• Skills in molecular and cellular biology.

This position is full-time (39 hours/week) and will be located in Ithaca, New York. This is a one-year appointment with possible extension depending on funding and performance.

Rewards and Benefits

We hope you appreciate great benefits. Cornell receives national recognition as an award-winning workplace for our health, well-being, sustainability, and diversity initiatives.

• Our benefits program includes comprehensive health care options, employee discounts with local and national retail brands, and generous retirement contributions.
• Our leave provisions include three weeks of vacation and 12 holidays: e.g., an end-of-year winter break, from December 25 through January 1.
• Cornell’s impressive educational benefits include tuition-free Part-time Study and Employee Degree Program, Tuition Aid for external education, and Cornell Children’s Tuition Assistance program.
• We invite you to follow this link to get more information: https://hr.cornell.edu/summaries-benefits.

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Life. Changing.

No relocation assistance is provided for this position. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

How to Apply:

You must submit both a resume/CV and cover letter. ​

When applying through our system, please attach your application materials (resume/CV and cover letter). You can upload documents either by “dragging and dropping” them into the dropbox or by using the “upload” icon on the application page. For more detailed instructions on how to apply to a job at Cornell, visit How We Hire on the HR website. If you are an internal employee, please log in to Workday.

Cornell University is an innovative Ivy League university and a great place to work. Our inclusive community of scholars, students, and staff impart an uncommon sense of larger purpose and contribute creative ideas to further the university’s mission of teaching, discovery, and engagement.

Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University’s heritage. We are a recognized employer and educator valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations.