Technician - Johnson Research Group

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Our Mission 

Cornell Human Ecology explores the complexity of human life. We bring together a range of perspectives to understand the full context of the human experience and improve lives at every scale, from cells to society. Our research and academic programs focus on the interaction of humans with their biological, economic, social, and physical environments. Using Cornell's far-reaching extension network and the college's translational research methods, we deliver our findings directly to communities and families, ensuring that our work reaches those who need it most. We prioritize innovative collaboration and are fueled by a powerful, interdisciplinary, and applied approach to improving lives.

The Opportunity

The Johnson Lab in the Division of Nutritional Sciences  is seeking a full-time research technician to manage general lab activities, assist with large scale efforts in bacterial genetics and biochemistry, assist with mouse husbandry, organize human subjects research, and independently execute molecular biology-based techniques. The Johnson lab studies metabolite-dependent diet-microbiome-host interactions using techniques in genomics, metabolomics, molecular biology, and microbial genetics.  The lab has a focus on understanding the importance of metabolite exchange in the establishment of the infant microbiome.  Under general supervision, responsibilities will include:

 

Laboratory duties

• Assist and lead large amounts of bacterial culturing; execute biochemical assays; assist with germ-free mouse work; perform tissue collection; independently prepare large numbers of microbiome samples for genomic and metabolomic analysis; independently prepare high throughput sequencing libraries, upkeep of lab reagent stocks; and safety management tasks. 

 

Administrative duties

• Procurement of lab supplies; general lab organization; and the upkeep of freezers and freezer organization.

 

This position presents an exciting opportunity for a motivated and adaptable individual to contribute meaningfully to microbiome research while deepening their scientific expertise. As the successful candidate, your work will directly impact studies in bacterial genetics, biochemistry, and molecular biology, while also helping maintain a well-organized and efficient lab environment. In return, you will benefit from continuous learning, intellectual engagement, and hands-on experience with a wide array of cutting-edge techniques in genomics, metabolomics, and microbial research – all within a collaborative and inclusive scientific community.

 

This is a one-year term, benefits eligible position with the possibility of renewal.  This is a fully on-site position that is based in Ithaca, NY.  Typical work hours are 8:00AM-4:30PM Monday through Friday.

 

Required Qualifications

• Associate’s degree and up to 2 years related laboratory experience or equivalent combination of education and experience. 
• Experience with bacterial culturing techniques and genetics analysis.
• Experience working in a lab specializing in either molecular biology, biochemistry, or genomics research.
• Knowledge of lab safety requirements.
• Must feel comfortable performing tasks involving laboratory mice.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Skilled in managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive and equitable working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members. 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, or any related field.
• Experience with creating sequencing libraries for the Illumina sequencing platform. 
  

A cover letter and resume are required for further consideration for this position.  No visa sponsorship or relocation assistance are provided for this position.

 

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• Cornell receives national recognition as an award-winning workplace for our health, wellbeing, sustainability, and inclusive workplace initiatives.
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• To offer greater flexibility for observing faiths and traditions we also offer two additional floating holidays. Learn more about our generous leave provisions: Holiday and Accrued Time Off | Working at Cornell
• Cornell's impressive educational benefits include tuition-free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program, tuition aid for external education, and Cornell Children's Tuition Assistance Program. Learn more about our extensive educational benefits: Education Benefits | Working at Cornell
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Cornell is an equal opportunity employer. For more information, click the following link: https://hr.cornell.edu/eeo.

   

University Job Title:

Technician III

   

Job Family:

Technical

   

Level:

C

   

Pay Rate Type:

Hourly

   

Pay Range:

$24.31 - $26.87

   

Remote Option Availability:

Onsite

   

Company:

Endowed

   

Contact Name:

Sheri Spencer-Chrisjohn

   

Contact Email:

sas636@cornell.edu

   

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2026-09-23