Technician II - Food Science

   

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Position Summary:

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The Tako Lab conducts multidisciplinary research that links between the research fields of Food Science and Nutrition. Overall research focuses on various aspects of (a) dietary trace mineral deficiencies, cause and effects, with emphases on the physiological and nutritional factors and practices that influence the intestinal absorption of micronutrients, specifically iron and zinc. (b) the characterization of the individual and interactive effects of dietary minerals (Fe/Zn), phytochemicals and prebiotics common to staple foods on the intestinal microbiome and BBM functionality. Evaluation of plant origin bioactive compounds extracted from food crops on mineral (Fe, Zn) dietary bioavailability and absorption in vivo. In this context, we use approaches that utilize both cellular and unique animal (Gallus gallus, both hatchling and embryonic) models to assess mineral bioavailability of staple food crops, and plant origin bioactive compounds. In general, my research is focused at: 1. Alleviating dietary mineral deficiencies in at-risk populations; 2. The development of a novel zinc status physiological blood biomarker (the LA:DGLA ratio); 3. The study of the effects of mineral deficiencies (Zn and Fe) on the intestinal brush border membrane functionality using the Gallus gallus model; 4. The interplay between nutrient intake and gene expression (nutrigenomics) relevant to Fe and Zn deficiency; 5. The interactions between host Fe and Zn status and the gut microbiome; and 6. The characterization of the individual and interactive effects of dietary minerals (Fe/Zn), phytochemicals and prebiotics common to staple foods (chickpea, bean, wheat, lentil) on the intestinal microbiome and BBM functionality. Evaluation of plant origin bioactive compounds extracted from food crops on mineral (Fe, Zn) dietary bioavailability and absorption in vivo.

The Technician II will support the research activity by organizing the lab, purchasing, keeping necessary laboratory records, conforming to safety regulations, and performing laboratory techniques under the direction of the principal investigator. Daily activities include but not limited to record keeping and care of the Gallus gallus model (CU poultry farm), intra amniotic (embryonic) administration, tissue and samples collection, surgical procedures, samples screening and analyses, DNA/RNA extraction (tissue and microbial), PCR, RT-PCR, gel electrophoresis, Western Blot, histological procedures such as IHC. The individual

will also be responsible for general lab support, maintenance, and training of students with basic technical tasks as needed.

Having excellent organizational, communication, and multi-tasking skills, as well as strong ability to attend to details and manual dexterity are essential and required. Working hours can be negotiated based on the individual needs/requests and experimental plans of the lab. Must

be flexible and have ability to work occasional weekends.

This is a full time, one-year, Technician II position to support research activities under the direction of the principal investigator, with possible extension dependent on funding and performance.

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Relocation assistance will not be provided for this position.

Required Qualifications:

• High school diploma and up to 2 years relevant experience or equivalent combination.

• More than 24-months of relevant work experience in a biological laboratory Experience working with DNA/RNA/western/histology/PCR/RT PCR/microscopy

• (light/electron) next generation sequencing/IC-MS/ dietary formulation (NRC)/ surgical procedures and tissue collection/statistical software

• Extensive knowledge and experience with whole animal organism (Gallus gallus specifically) in an experimental setting

• Must be willing to work with chicken (Gallus gallus) and chemicals Visual concentration and manual dexterity are required

• Detail oriented and able to strictly adhere to safety and specific lab procedures Possess excellent organizational and communication skills

• Ability to work independently as well as in a team setting Able to multitask and maintain consistent productivity

• Highly motivated, excellent work ethic, good judgment and reliability in the work place Understands the need to and strives to seeks ways to improve and increase work efficiency Must possess basic computer skills (MS Word, Excel, NGS, ANOVA, etc.)

• Must have and maintain a valid and unrestricted NYS Drivers License and be approved for travel for Cornell University business

• Must be able to move and lift up to 20 pounds

• Experience in and/or demonstrated commitment to supporting diversity, equity, access, inclusion, and wellbeing.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate’s degree, more than 2 years of college coursework or equivalent. Hold BS or MS degree in biological sciences, molecular biology, physiology, or related field\ Have two or more years of hands-on experience in a molecular biology laboratory, specifically with experience in care of chicken model (Gallus gallus), intra amniotic administration (embryo), screening, DNA/RNA/microbial extraction, RT-PCR, PCR, gel electrophoresis, Westerm Blot, microbiology, microscopy (light/electron), histological procedures.

• Prior experience (at least 1 years) working with Gallus gallus animal model. Including dietaryformulation, conduct of long-term feeding trial.

• Experience with extensive molecular and NGS techniques

• Individuals with interest in nutrition, Bio active compounds, animal models, nutrigenomics, and/or molecular biology research

   

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University Job Title:

Technician II

Job Family:

Technical

Level:

B

Pay Rate Type:

Hourly

Pay Range:

$19.92 - $22.02

Remote Option Availability:

Fully Onsite

Company:

Contract College

Contact Name:

Joan Olson

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• Unique applicable skills

• Academic Discipline (faculty pay ranges reflects 9-month annual salary)

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2024-02-02