Research Technician- Sarvestani Lab

The Sarvestani Lab at Cornell University, Ithaca, NY is looking for a Research Technician I to join their lab. Dr. Madineh Sedigh-Sarvestani studies the neural mechanisms involved in visual perception, and how body movements shape and constrain what animals see. We use a variety of modern neuroscience techniques in the lab including two-photon imaging, electrophysiology, cross-species behavioral paradigms, and computational modeling. More information about the lab and their work can be found by visiting

About the Role:

We are seeking a Research Technician (RT) to join our team to assist with our breeding colony, animal training, and laboratory organization. As with all roles involving animal work, this position will require flexible hours depending on the needs of the experiment. We are ideally targeting someone who is enthusiastic, curious, organized and passionate about our research and would take pride in the work they do within a cutting-edge scientific lab. This is a fixed term 1 year position.

What We Provide:

• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and welfare benefits.

• The opportunity to contribute to publications and learn new scientific approaches expanding your knowledge and skills.

• Hands-on training and mentorship.

• Assistance in preparing for graduate school applications and interviews.

• A vibrant and inclusive cultural environment.

• Weekly meetings with the Investigator and lab members in a collaborative and highly team-oriented setting.

What You'll Do:

• Organize and maintain tree shrew colony (carrying out husbandry, hand-rearing, animal identification and general animal care, as well as ordering supplies).

• Assist with ongoing lab projects e.g., tissue processing, histology, animal surgery, behavioral training.

• Interface with veterinary staff and other labs; serve as lab safety officer and representative to institutional safety and animal oversight groups.

• Prepare and order necessary laboratory supplies. May work with vendors to address equipment, reagent, or supply issues.

• Receive and organize laboratory reagents and consumables, track inventory.

• Organize lab meetings and social outings.

• Analyze experimental data; address methodological problems in experimental protocols and interpret results.

• Record experimental results and maintain accurate lab records, provide oral and written reports as requested.

• Participate in regular meetings with relevant lab personnel and the PI.

What You Bring:

• B.A. or B.S. in Biological Sciences, Bioengineering, Neuroscience, or related STEM discipline is required.

• Experience and comfort with handling small animals is required.

• Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize responsibilities are required.

• Strong interpersonal communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a team environment and independently are required.

• Two years of laboratory experience is strongly preferred.

• Prior experience in colony management of small animals (mice) is a plus.

• Programming ability is a plus.

• Willingness to work after-hours or weekends, from time to time, related to animal care.

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Work may involve possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances or other hazardous materials.

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

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