Administrative Assistant, Biomedical Sciences

About the Department of Biomedical Sciences

The mission of the Department of Biomedical Sciences is to: Conduct cutting-edge basic & translational science research and innovative teaching & mentoring to advance education and discovery in veterinary and human medicine in an inclusive community. 

The Department of Biomedical Sciences, part of Cornell’s College of Veterinary medicine, consistently ranks at the top of similar departments at other veterinary colleges in terms of scholarly output.  Our internationally renowned faculty conduct basic and applied research in areas including mammalian genetics, cell and developmental biology, reproductive biology, cardiovascular disease, cancer mechanisms, stem cell biology and comparative pathology/physiology.  The department is also home to the Center for Vertebrate Genomics (VERGE), the Cornell Reproductive Sciences Center (CoRe) and the Comparative Cancer Biology Program.   Faculty teach students at all levels including some with clinical responsibilities on the Ithaca campus and at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City. 

The Opportunity

Are you an organized, proactive, and detail-oriented professional with a passion for providing excellent customer service in a collaborative environment? Do you thrive in dynamic environments where your ability to think critically, manage multiple tasks, and maintain a positive attitude are valued? If so, we invite you to apply for the Administrative Assistant position Biomedical Sciences, within the College of Veterinary Medicine, here at Cornell University.

As an Administrative Assistant, you will play a crucial role in supporting the department's operations, ensuring smooth and efficient workflows, and contributing to the success of various programs and faculty members. This role requires an individual who can work independently, exercise excellent judgment, and handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.

Key Responsibilities:

Administrative Support to the Department:

• Manage vendor contracts, maintain appropriate levels of products and supplies, and respond to both short- and long-term needs.
• Oversee the Ricoh copier, FedEx, and Culligan water accounts.
• Maintain and update the departmental website and intranet as directed.
• Manage conference room reservations and main office support, including welcoming visitors, handling mail, and organizing office supplies.
• Assist with short- and long-term projects such as flyer/poster design, database management, and event setup/takedown.

Facility Responsibilities:

• Manage after-hour access, key distribution, and inventory, and post regulatory documents.
• Update departmental personnel contact information and door signage.
• Oversee building access control and prepare offices for incoming faculty.

Administrative Support for Faculty:

• Provide a wide range of administrative support for faculty teaching and research activities.
• Manage calendars, arrange meetings, and handle travel arrangements and reimbursements.
• Assist faculty and staff with computer applications and office equipment troubleshooting.
• Create and manage correspondence, maintain memberships, and update faculty web pages.

Other Responsibilities:

• Participate in projects with responsibilities that may vary from the core role.
• Support other office professionals as needed and cover during absences.
• Engage in continuous learning and attend diversity and inclusion events annually.

This position may require working outside of normal business hours, including occasional holidays, evenings, and weekends.

As part of our team, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to meaningful work that supports the academic and research missions of the university, while growing your skills in a supportive environment.  Interested applicants are encouraged to apply with their resume and cover letter. 

What We Need 

All applicants must include a resume and cover letter for full consideration. 

• High School Diploma and 2 to 4 years relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and related professional experience.
• Excellent organizational, communication, problem solving skills, superior written, verbal, and interpersonal skills and time-management skills are essential. 
• Ability to interact with faculty, support staff, and other staff members from other CVM col