CALS- Technician III - Microbiology- Laboratory Technician

Cornell University•Ithaca, MI

20h•Onsite

About The Position

Cornell University, founded on principles of inclusion and belonging, strives to be a welcoming, caring, healthy, and equitable community. The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS), Cornell's second largest college, focuses on purpose-driven science, research, education, and outreach across disciplines to address global challenges related to complex systems, nutritious food, healthy environments, and supporting local communities. The Department of Microbiology within CALS houses fourteen active research laboratories, serves as the home for the Graduate Field of Microbiology with over 50+ affiliated faculty, and offers advanced courses. This full-time, one-year term Research Technician position is in the Department of Microbiology, specifically joining Dr. Heather Feaga's lab. The Feaga lab's research focuses on identifying and characterizing translation factors in Bacillus subtilis using genetic, biochemical, and bioinformatic approaches. The role is fully in-person on the Ithaca, NY campus, and relocation assistance is not provided.

Requirements

Associate’s degree and up to 2 years of relevant experience or equivalent combination.
Strong organizational and communication skills.
Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
Proficiency in basic computer programs (Microsoft Word, Excel, etc.) and the use of online data-sharing tools (e.g., Dropbox, Google Docs).
Proficiency in standard lab techniques such as culturing micro-organisms and maintaining sterile technique.
Experience in data collection and analysis.
Experience with bioinformatics and ability to analyze sequencing data.
Experience maintaining a detailed laboratory notebook.
Knowledge of standard laboratory safety protocols and guidelines.
Ability to lift 20 pounds.
Visual concentration, attention to detail, and manual dexterity are required.
Must be able to work irregular hours occasionally.
Ability to keep equipment, materials, and lab organized.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to interact with technical personnel.
Ability to take initiative.
Must be personable, flexible, and take pride in their work.
Possess excellent organizational skills.
Ability to pay attention to detail.
Ability to develop effective working relationships with students, faculty, and staff.
Ability to create an inclusive, high-quality, and respectful work environment both in a team setting and independently to achieve departmental and university goals.
Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive and equitable working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members.
Experience incorporating the perspectives of multiple communities.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in microbiology, molecular biology, or a related field.
Previous laboratory experience (2+ years).
Previous hands-on experience in either biochemistry OR bioinformatics.
Experience with biochemistry such as protein purification and molecular cloning, OR Experience with next-generation sequencing technologies, bioinformatics, R, Python.

Responsibilities

Manage and participate in ongoing lab projects, providing support to existing projects and developing new projects.
Evaluate, troubleshoot, and handle simple repairs for laboratory equipment.
Maintain lab equipment and train new lab members in its use.
Coordinate sample shipping and data sharing with collaborating labs.
Assist with overall lab maintenance, including coordinating with other lab members to order supplies, update inventories, and maintain cleanliness.
Participate in lab group meetings.
Provide instruction, training, and direction to visiting scientists, postdoctoral associates, graduate trainees, and undergraduate students as directed by the supervisor.
Foster a culture of belonging and a healthy work environment by communicating across differences; being cooperative, collaborative, open, and welcoming; showing respect, compassion, and empathy; engaging and supporting others regardless of background or perspective; speaking up when others are being excluded or treated inappropriately; and supporting work/life integration of oneself and others.

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: 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
Two additional floating holidays
Tuition-free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program
Tuition aid for external education
Cornell Children's Tuition Assistance Program
Employee wellness
Workshops
Childcare and adoption assistance
Parental leave
Flexible work options