Research Technician II - Animal Comparative Medicine & Pathology

Research Technician II - Animal Comparative Medicine & Pathology

Location: Upper East Side

Org Unit: Lab of Comparative Pathology

Work Days: Monday-Friday

Weekly Hours: 35.00

Exemption Status: Non-Exempt

Salary Range: $25.34 - $32.36

Position Summary

This role is part of the Lab of Comparative Pathology (LCP) Histology Team and supports high-quality veterinary diagnostic and research outcomes. Candidates will operate tissue processors and embedding centers. They will use a microtome to section animal tissues in paraffin blocks for slide mounting and are responsible for performing slide staining using both manual and automated processes.

In addition to the standard job responsibilities listed below, this position will be specifically responsible for:

• Performing routine histologic procedures: Embedding of specimens in paraffin wax, sectioning using a microtome, staining of tissue slides, cover slipping
• Operating automated slide stainers
• Manually stain tissue slides with special stains and immunohistochemistry stains
• Preparing frozen tissue specimens and frozen sections using a cryostat
• Communicating directly with customers and pathologists to achieve high quality results
• Maintaining and troubleshooting lab equipment
• Preparing solutions required for any histological examination
• May perform accessioning and grossing of specimens
• Keeping track of specimens in Laboratory Information System
• Performing other duties as assigned

Job Responsibilities

• Independently or semi-independently, designs and carries out experiments. Analyzes and interprets experimental results and provides input related to subsequent experimental designs. Evaluates, recommends, and develops new techniques to assist in overall laboratory efficiency.
• Conducts library research and literature searches using various computer systems. Assists in editing scientific publications, abstracts and posters.
• Provides working supervision to junior laboratory staff as needed. Assists in the orientation and training of new investigators, fellows, residents, and technical staff in the use of equipment, products and experimental techniques.
• Responsible for tissue & cell culture activities. May run routine biochemistry assays including western blotting and RT-PCR.
• Audits and screens vendors/suppliers to evaluate the quality of products and equipment they supply. Corresponds with them for technical support pertaining to those products.
• Prepares and maintains detailed records, logs and summary reports of all procedures and results including graphs, scientific calculations, and statistical analysis charting.
• May perform routine molecular biology laboratory procedures, such as PCR, protein and DNA electrophoresis, cloning and DNA preparation. May perform microscopic imaging analyses.
• Ensures a clean working area and is responsible for washing and storing glassware.
• May be responsible for animal husbandry, genotyping, surgeries, post-operative care, behavioral testing, sectioning and histology.
• Ensures that safe laboratory practices are followed, including the use and disposal of chemicals and hazardous materials.
• Maintains inventory of supplies, equipment and/or reagents. May order supplies/equipment/reagents as authorized or ensure that needs are escalated appropriately. Receives supply orders and confirms accuracy of delivery. May assist with cost control.
• Ensures that facilities and equipment are in optimal and proper working condition. Coordinates preventative maintenance and repairs as needed. May perform minor repairs if qualified and as needed. May advise on upgrades for performance enhancements.
• May be responsible for the receipt, storage, cataloguing and shipment of samples within and between institutions.

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Experience

Approximately 2 years of related work experience within a laboratory. Minimum six months experience using microtome to cut paraffin blocks.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Ability to work flexible hours.

Working Conditions/Physical Demands

Standard laboratory conditions; This position may handle radioactive material and/or biologic materials from human subjects as required; This position may require standing or sitting for long periods of time; This role may require working within Biologic Safety Level 1, 2 and/or 3 facilities.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Cornell welcomes students, faculty, and staff with diverse backgrounds from across the globe to pursue world-class education and career opportunities, to further the founding principle of "any person, any study." No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally protected status or be subjected to prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex, pregnancy or pregnancy-related conditions, age, creed, religion, actual or perceived disability (including persons associated with such a person), arrest and/or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, an individual's genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Cornell University embraces diversity in its workforce and seeks job candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff of all identities and backgrounds. We hire based on merit, and encourage people from historically underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply. Consistent with federal law, Cornell engages in affirmative action in employment for qualified protected veterans as defined in the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRRA) and qualified individuals with disabilities under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law.

Key skills/competency

• Histology
• Microtome
• Staining
• Cryostat
• Laboratory Equipment
• Research
• Animal Husbandry
• Molecular Biology
• Data Analysis
• Laboratory Safety