Compliance Specialist, IACUC

Cornell University•Ithaca, MI

12d•$78,812 - $91,592•Hybrid

About The Position

The Office of Research Integrity and Assurance (ORIA) at Cornell University seeks an experienced research professional to support its Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) and the Cornell research community. The role provides expert guidance on research protocols to help ensure compliance with the Animal Welfare Act and other regulatory requirements. The specialist independently assesses IACUC protocols and amendments, assists committee members with review and approval, and advises faculty and researchers on interpreting requirements and preparing animal-use protocols. The position requires handling sensitive information with strict confidentiality, sound judgment, and consistent attention to deadlines. It also involves developing training and resources; managing committee meetings and follow-up; coordinating protocol reviews with the Office for Sponsored Programs; supporting protocol-management systems and research-administration software; contributing to policies, procedures, reports, benchmarking, and gap analyses; and coordinating with animal-care, health-and-safety, and facility staff. The role is based on Cornell University’s Ithaca, New York campus and is eligible for a hybrid work arrangement, with weekly on-campus work expected. The position is part of ORIA, which provides guidance on research integrity and responsible conduct and oversees several Cornell research-compliance programs.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a life science, such as biology, biomedical engineering, animal science, or veterinary technology, and 3–5 years of relevant work experience; or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience.
Knowledge of research involving live vertebrate animals.
Experience working directly with faculty or researchers conducting, managing, or reviewing research proposals.
Demonstrated customer-service orientation.
Proficiency with computers and office applications, especially Microsoft Word and Excel.
Strong organizational skills and consistent ability to meet strict deadlines.
Ability to work independently and maintain strict confidentiality.
Ability to exercise sound judgment and make decisions on some projects without additional oversight.
Excellent attention to detail and superior written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members.
Submit a cover letter and resume outlining interest in the position and how experience and qualifications match the requirements.
Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree in life sciences or a related field.
Experience conducting research or working in a research-focused setting.
Experience performing quality-assurance reviews, especially of research projects.
Experience developing or reviewing policies and procedures.
Previous experience working in an IACUC or quality-assurance office, including experience with protocol-management systems.

Responsibilities

Provide expert guidance on IACUC research protocols to support compliance with the Animal Welfare Act and other regulatory requirements.
Independently assess IACUC protocols and amendments and assist committee members in the review and approval process.
Advise faculty and researchers on IACUC requirements and preparation of animal-use protocols.
Maintain strict confidentiality, exercise sound judgment, and meet strict deadlines when handling sensitive information.
Develop and present IACUC training sessions and create resources and tools for faculty, students, committee members, and staff.
Manage IACUC meetings, including preparing agendas and materials, preparing minutes, and following up on action items.
Coordinate with the Office for Sponsored Programs on protocols associated with external funding and compare grant applications with approved protocols.
Troubleshoot issues in the protocol-management system and contribute to testing, training, and implementation of new research-administration software.
Participate in developing and implementing policies, procedures, and guidelines to ensure continued compliance.
Benchmark best practices and provide recommendations for new policies or programs.
Assist with developing and reviewing internal and external IACUC reports.
Engage with CARE, EHS, and animal-facility staff to answer questions about animal-care and use issues and policies.
Contribute to compliance gap analyses.
Help foster a culture of belonging and a healthy work environment through inclusive, respectful, cooperative, and collaborative conduct.

Benefits

Comprehensive health care options.
Generous retirement contributions.
Access to wellness programs.
Employee discounts with local and national retail brands.
Health and personal leave.
Three weeks of vacation.
13 holidays, including an end-of-year winter break from December 25 through January 1.
Two additional floating holidays for observing faiths and traditions.
Tuition-free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program.
Tuition aid for external education.
Cornell Children's Tuition Assistance Program.