Research Technician

Research Technician, Fischer Research Group

Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology

The Opportunity
A Research Technician position is available in Dr. Tara Fischer’s research group at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY to support research in molecular and cellular mechanisms of organelle quality control and immunity in neurodegenerative disorders. This will be an excellent opportunity to perform full-time research in a recently established lab at Cornell. This is a full-time (40 hours per week) one-year term appointment, with renewal available. This position is 100% onsite.

We offer you the opportunity to pursue high-quality basic research with secure funding and excellent resources in a vibrant community of researchers at the Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology. You will work directly with Dr. Tara Fischer on exciting projects and build technical skills in molecular cloning, cell culture, immunoprecipitation, western blotting, and advanced microscopy, as well as analytical thinking and experimental design skills. We also have a strong commitment to mentoring and offer support in successfully transitioning to the next stage of your career.

As a successful Research Technician, your work will be a central part of the Fischer lab’s efforts to understand the relationship between organelle quality control, cellular immunity, and neurodegeneration. Your attention to detail, collaborative mindset, enthusiasm for research, and appreciation of others will help ensure the lab operates smoothly and remains a space for meaningful scientific discovery. Prior research experience in cell biology and biochemical techniques is not necessary, but is a plus.

Under the direction of Dr. Fischer, job responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Assisting with the design and execution of molecular and cell biology and biochemical experiments
• Managing cell lines with good aseptic technique
• Data collection and analysis
• Detailed experimental note taking and proper laboratory notebook management
• Literature-based research
• Participation in lab meetings, research related discussions, and other activities
• Routine lab maintenance
• Assisting with preparation of data and manuscripts for publication

About Us

At the Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, part of Cornell Research & Innovation, researchers push the frontiers of biology by decoding how cells function at the molecular level, pioneering innovative techniques, and analyzing mechanisms of health and disease to transform our understanding of life’s fundamental processes. The Institute thrives as an interdisciplinary hub of life science research at Cornell. Behind every breakthrough is a dedicated community of scientists, support staff, and students asking bold questions, undertaking cutting-edge research, and sharing ideas and technology - to advance knowledge and improve the human condition.

Dr. Tara D. Fischer, Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor of Molecular Biology and Genetics in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and a member of the Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology. The Fischer lab studies fundamental organelle biology in cellular health and disease, with the main interest in understanding the molecular mechanisms of organelle quality control - or how cells sense and resolve damage to maintain the integrity of organelles. As failure of organelle quality control is linked to neurodegenerative disorders with persistent inflammation, the lab is particularly focused on how maintenance of organelle integrity shapes cellular immunity and survival. By combining advanced imaging, molecular tools, and biochemistry in cellular and disease models, the lab aims to discover new immune-related pathways of organelle quality control important for human health. In doing so, the work will advance fundamental understanding of organelle biology and lay the foundation for drug discovery that will redefine how neurodegenerative disorders are treated.

What We Need
Please submit a cover letter and resume telling us about your interest, experience, and qualifications for this position. Note that visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

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

• High school diploma
• Relevant work experience - Up to 2 years
• Orientation towards learning
• Motivated to perform high quality research
• Strong communication and writing skills
• Comfortable working independently and as a part of a collaborative team
• Organizational and time management skills
• Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members

Additionally, the following would be helpful:

• A recent bachelor’s degree in biological sciences, biochemistry, or related fields
• Prior research experience in cell biology and biochemical techniques