Medical Technologist I - Molecular Diagnostics

The Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine seeks a Medical Technologist to join the Molecular Diagnostics team. The Medical Technologist I processes a wide variety of samples using molecular diagnostic procedures to determine their pathogenic or genetic status. The Medical Technologist reports directly to the supervisor of the unit and indirectly to the director of the unit. They are also responsible for adhering to the laboratory’s quality system.

The job responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Perform routine molecular diagnostic testing 
• Extract and analyze DNA or RNA from a large number of samples such as blood, feces, tissues, milk, etc. quickly and accurately 
• Develop and perform a comprehensive range of molecular biological procedures used in assays for the diagnosis of viral and bacterial infection, and genetic analysis 
• Identify and troubleshoot problems, work both independently and under direction, and exercise sound judgment 
• Provide general laboratory maintenance, order supplies, keep inventories, develop and maintain quality system documentation, perform calibrations and schedule equipment maintenance and repair 
• Use a wide range of software for data input, sequence analysis and comparisons, primer and probe development, and graphical and statistical analysis of data 

Employees working in the laboratory must receive the pre-exposure rabies prophylaxis vaccination series prior to or immediately after hire, which will be paid for by the department.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, microbiology, or related field, and up to two years of laboratory experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Experience with molecular techniques including DNA/RNA isolation and purification, and PCR
• Ability to work within a biological safety cabinet using a range of manual and automated pipettes for extended periods of time
• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills; ability to identify and troubleshoot problems
• Ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines while having strong attention to detail
• Ability to handle sensitive, confidential information with tact and discretion
• Works well both individually and within a team environment
• Ability to push, pull, lift, or carry up to 20 pounds

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Quality Assurance systems, assay development, and liquid handling robotic systems
• Knowledge and understanding of real-time PCR, sequencing, and recombinant methods
• Experience with Quality Assurance systems, assay development, and liquid handling robotic systems

Important Details about the Position

• This is an onsite position located in Ithaca, NY.
• This is a full-time three-year term position with potential for extension contingent upon funding and performance.
• We are unable to provide Visa sponsorship, now or in the future, for this position.
• Relocation assistance will not be provided for this position.

This position is 39 hours per week. While normal business hours are 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, specific schedules may change to meet the needs of the business, requiring employees to work early mornings, evenings, weekends, University holidays and scheduled breaks.

The Following Documents are Required to be Submitted with your Application

• Resume
• Cover Letter

What We Offer:

Great benefits! Cornell receives national recognition as an award-winning workplace for our health, wellbeing, and sustainability.

• 3 weeks of paid vacation
• 13 additional holiday days with generous holiday pay if you work on those days

• An award-winning employer provided benefits program
  • Comprehensive health care options
  • Access to wellness programs
  • Employee discounts with local and national retail brands
  • Generous retirement contributions
  • Impressive educational benefits include tuition-free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program, Tuition Aid for external education, and Cornell Children's Tuition Assistance program
• Follow this link for more information: https://hr.cornell.edu/understand-your-benefits

Employees are expected to meet all of the Cornell University Staff