Research Support Specialist II - Plant Breeding and Genetics

Position Summary

The position is located within the department of Plant Breeding & Genetics. Design, execute and plan activities or experiments in the lab combining several experimental programs and/or research projects according to plan. Assist in preparing research reports and papers, to contribute to publishable research reports, papers, and articles. Provide technical support in writing specific areas of grant proposal and prepare grant budgets. Supervise work of staff working in laboratory or work unit, while observing research methods and suggesting options for improving quality and recommending solutions. Demonstrate and train staff/students on the use of moderately complex equipment and laboratory techniques; explain and demonstrate technology and equipment capabilities, operations limitations and outcomes. Develop quality control measurements of manufacturer materials used in successive and comparative experiments. Maintain and/or supervise a sophisticated maintenance program involving critical equipment, plants, animals, microorganisms, or other materials involved in the experiment or laboratory. Provide specifications for inventory and equipment needs, while also recommending new laboratory or program materials and vendors. Develop quality control measurements of manufacturer materials used in successive and comparative experiments.

Adhere to all disease control and laboratory safety protocols. Complete training on lab safety and proper handling of chemicals as required by CALS EHS. Implement appropriate laboratory safety and waste disposal protocols for compliance.

This is a full-time position at 100% FTE.

While position responsibilities vary, every member of our community is expected to 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.

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Relocation assistance will not be provided for this position.

College/Department Background

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) is a pioneer of purpose-driven science and Cornell University’s second largest college. We work across disciplines to tackle the challenges of our time through world-renowned research, education, and outreach. The questions we probe and the answers we seek focus on three overlapping concerns: We believe that achieving next-generation scientific breakthroughs requires an understanding of the world’s complex, interlocking systems. We believe that access to nutritious food and a healthy environment is a fundamental human right. We believe that ensuring a prosperous global future depends on the ability to support local people and communities everywhere. By working in and across multiple scientific areas, CALS can address challenges and opportunities of the greatest relevance, here in New York, across the nation, and around the world.

About SIPS: The CALS School of Integrative of Plant Science (SIPS) encompasses five fields: Horticulture, Plant Biology, Plant Breeding & Genetics, Plant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology, and Soil and Crop Sciences. Combined there are 100+ faculty, ~200 undergraduate majors, 200+ graduate students in six fields, and 600+ other employees located in Ithaca, Geneva, and other satellite locations across New York State. The School offers the multidisciplinary undergraduate major in the Plant Sciences and is also home to the Agricultural Sciences major. School faculty also contribute to the Biology, Global Development, and Viticulture & Enology majors.

Program Statement/Description: The primary focus of the small grains research program in the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics is the breeding and genetics of small grains including wheat, oats, barley, rye, and triticale. 

What We Need

• Bachelor’s degree and 3 to 5 years of relevant experience or equivalent combination.

• Must complete Cornell University Supervisory Development Training within one year of hire into the position.  Compliant with all Cornell University and job-related training requirements.

• Prior experience in a laboratory setting.

• Prior knowledge of safety protocols in a lab setting and proper waste handling.

• Practical skills in operating advanced equipment.  Able to operate forklift, dri