Research Technician

Cornell University • City of Ithaca, NY

1d • $24 - $27 • Onsite

About The Position

Dr. Adrienne Roeder’s research group at Cornell University (https://roeder.wicmb.cornell.edu/) is seeking a highly motivated Research Technician to support ongoing research on sepal morphogenesis in response to external perturbations. The technician will play a key role in advancing the goals of the NSF-funded URoL:EN Emergent Morphogenesis project, working closely with postdoctoral scholars in a collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment.

This position is essential to achieving the aims of our NSF grant, particularly those focused on environmental perturbation responses, spatial transcriptomics, and hyperspectral microscopy. The technician’s contributions will directly support data generation, analysis, and dissemination of research findings. Prior laboratory experience is expected, but expertise in the described techniques is not required. We seek candidates demonstrating a strong motivation to learn and excel, and we will provide training in all procedures and techniques. This is a full-time (40 hours/week), benefits eligible, one-year term position.

At the Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, part of Cornell Research & Innovation, researchers push the frontiers of biology by decoding how cells function at the molecular level, pioneering innovative techniques, and analyzing mechanisms of health and disease to transform our understanding of life’s fundamental processes. The Institute thrives as an interdisciplinary hub of life science research at Cornell. Behind every breakthrough is a dedicated community of scientists, support staff, and students asking bold questions, undertaking cutting-edge research, and sharing ideas and technology – to advance knowledge and improve the human condition.

Please submit a cover letter and resume telling us about your interest, experience, and qualifications for this position. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree and 2 years of relevant work experience; or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience
• Previous laboratory research experience (academic or industry)
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team-based research environment
• Willingness to work full-time on site and perform hands-on experimental work
• Demonstrated high standards of conduct, including honesty and trustworthiness
• Clear and consistent communications, orally and in writing
• Demonstrated use of sound judgment in problem solving
• Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, plant biology, molecular biology, genetics, bioengineering, or a related field
• Ability to be self-directed, take appropriate action and be efficient and resourceful in fulfilling responsibilities
• Motivated to continuously learn and improve
• Experience with plant biology, developmental biology, or morphogenesis research
• Experience with live imaging, confocal or multiphoton microscopy
• Familiarity with image analysis and quantitative morphometrics; experience with MorphoGraphX or similar software is a plus
• Experience with RNA-based assays, spatial transcriptomics, cryosectioning, or histology
• Basic computational or data analysis skills (e.g., R, Python, ImageJ/Fiji, MATLAB)
• Experience with plant care, genotyping, and routine molecular biology techniques
• Strong communication skills, including the ability to contribute to figures, manuscripts, and presentations
• Interest in interdisciplinary and collaborative research projects

Responsibilities

• Plant care and maintenance
• Genotyping and routine molecular biology tasks
• Media preparation and general laboratory support
• Assisting with figure preparation, manuscript writing, and presentations
• Participating in collaborative team meetings and URoL:EN project events

Benefits

• Cornell receives national recognition as an award-winning workplace for our health, wellbeing, and sustainability.
• Our benefits programs include comprehensive health care options, generous retirement contributions, access to wellness programs, and employee discounts with local and national retail brands.
• Our leave provisions include health and personal leave, three weeks of vacation and 13 holidays: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and the day after, and an end of the year winter break from December 25-January 1. To offer greater flexibility for observing faiths and traditions we also offer two additional floating holidays.
• Cornell's impressive educational benefits include tuition-free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program, tuition aid for external education, and Cornell Children's Tuition Assistance Program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree