Research Support Specialist II

Research Support Specialist II
Lab of Atomic and Solid State Physics

Who We Are

Research and Innovation (RI), led by the Vice President for Research and Innovation (VPRI), enables, and advances the University's research priorities as well as research activities of Cornell colleges, schools, and research centers, institutes, and laboratories.

The Research Support Specialist II position in LASSP supports the research portfolio of Prof. Robert Thorne (Physics) and is focused on the development and application of instrumentation and methods for time-resolved crystallography, single particle cryo-EM, and cryopreservation of oocytes and embryos. This position is currently supported by the NSF grant account U76 9014 and USDA account U76 9015. The methods and tools developed by Prof. Thorne's research group are used by structural biologists around the world.

What You Will Do

While position responsibilities vary, every member of our community is expected to foster a culture of belonging and a psychologically 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.

The Research Support Specialist supports technology development for x-ray and electron-based studies of biomolecular structure and function in Prof. Robert Thorne's research group.

The successful candidate will support the development and application of instrumentation and methods for time-resolved X-ray crystallography, single-particle cryo-EM, and cryopreservation of gametes for assisted reproduction of non-human animals. This work will be performed in the laboratory of Prof. Robert Thorne at Cornell University. Examples of the kind of work involved are described in IUCrJ 8, 784-792 (2021), IUCrJ 8, 867-877 (2021), Acta Cryst. D 7, 628-644 (2021), Acta Cryst. D 79, 78-94 (2023), Sci. Rep. 14, 18809 (2024), and bioRxiv 2024.08.23.609221.

Cornell University has outstanding facilities to support this work, including the Cornell Nanofabrication Facility (https://www.cnf.cornell.edu/), the Cornell High-Energy Synchrotron Source (https://www.chess.cornell.edu/), an electron microscopy facility (https://www.ccmr.cornell.edu/category/user-instruments/electron-and-optical-microscopy/), and a well-quipped user machine shop (https://www.lassp.cornell.edu/facilities/machine-shop). All these facilities are staffed by professionals who can provide training and support. The successful candidate(s) will refine and acquire a large experimental skill set, equipping them to tackle challenging problems in biological science/technology and engineering.

Primary responsibilities for this position include but are not limited to:

• Design, construction, and testing of experimental apparatus involving mechanical, electronic, fluidic, and optical components
• System programming and integration
• System testing and analysis
• Microfabrication of sample supports and other components
• X-ray data collection at CHESS
• Co-supervision of undergraduate students in design, construction, and testing of experimental apparatus and in preparation of samples for study
• Assistance in writing of instruction manuals and journal articles based on designed apparatus and scientific results obtained using them
• Coordinate group research activities with PI and postdoc(s)
• Provide lab introduction and safety training for new lab members, and serve as our lab safety contact
• Present results of work at conferences

This is a 1-year term position with the possibility of extension based on funding and successful performance.

What We Need
We ask you to submit a cover letter and resume outlining your interest in this position and explaining how your experience and qualifications match the position requirements.

When reviewing your materials and evaluating your candidacy, we will look for evidence of the following:

• Bachelor of Science in physics, bio/biomedical engineering, applied physics, chemistry, materials science, mechanical engineering, molecular biology or related fields, and at least 3 years experience working in a laboratory (including instructional laboratory) setting.
• Experience with CAD design, microfabrication, machining/3D printing, apparatus construction, interfacing and testing, optical system design and assembly, and programming for data collection and experimental control. Ability to troubleshoot, repair, and maintain mechanical and electronic equipment.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively in a diverse team of scientists including faculty, professional staff, students, and postdocs.
• Experience in and/or demonstrated commitment to supporting diversity, equity, access, inclusion, and wellbeing.
• Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive and equitable working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members.

What We Prefer

Additionally, we would like to see evidence of:

• Masters or Ph.D. in physics, bio/biomedical engineering, applied physics, chemistry, materials science, mechanical engineering, molecular biology or related fields.
• Experience with protein preparation and crystallization, synchrotron-based X-ray data collection, cryo-EM data collection, and biomolecular structural analysis and modeling.
  

Rewards and Benefits

• Cornell receives national recognition as an award-winning workplace for our health, wellbeing, sustainability, and diversity initiatives.

• Our benefits programs include comprehensive health care options, generous retirement contributions, access to wellness programs, and employee discounts with local and national retail brands. We invite you to follow this link to get more information about our benefits: https://hr.cornell.edu/benefits-pay.

• Our leave provisions include three weeks of vacation and 13 holidays: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and the day after, and an end of the year winter break from December 25 to January 1.

Important Notes about Applying

• Please submit both a cover letter and a resume to be considered for this position.
• The search committee will review applications as received and conduct interviews on a rolling basis.
• There is no visa sponsorship available for this position.

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Non-Union Positions

Noted pay ranges reflect the potential pay opportunity for each job profile. The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined considering the following criteria:

• Prior relevant work or industry experience
• Education level to the extent education is relevant to the position
• Unique applicable skills
• Academic Discipline

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Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University's heritage. We are a recognized employer and educator valuing AA/EEO, and we do not tolerate discrimination based on any protected characteristic, including race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex/gender, 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. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law.

Cornell University embraces diversity and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff to all identities and backgrounds. We encourage individuals from underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply.