Entomology Technician I
The Opportunity
The Department of Entomology is seeking a passionate and detail-oriented Entomology Technician I to join our collaborative research community and contribute to impactful, real-world work. As an Entomology Technician I, you will play an important role supporting the NYS Beekeeper Tech Team, as well as research and extension efforts within the Dyce Lab. This position combines fieldwork, laboratory research, and hands-on apiary work, offering a dynamic and meaningful work environment.
What You Will Do
Research & Laboratory Support
- Assist with preparation of stains, media, and reagents
- Conduct laboratory and semi-field bioassays with honeybees, bumble bees, and flowering plants
- Support research projects with graduate students and lab staff
- Maintain accurate lab records, databases, and research documentation
Field & Data Collection
- Perform field sampling, colony inspections, and pest/parasite assessments
- Collect and analyze data, including standard calculations and experiment tracking
- Assist in the care and maintenance of research specimens (bees and plants)
- Participate in apiary inspections and colony management at the Dyce Lab
Lab Operations & Safety
- Clean, sterilize, and maintain laboratory equipment and workspaces
- Follow all laboratory safety and disease control protocols
- Properly handle, store, and dispose of chemicals and lab waste
- Complete required safety and environmental health training
Professional Growth & Team Collaboration
- Participate in training, workshops, and team initiatives
- Provide input to improve processes and workflows
- Assist in training new staff or temporary employees
- Collaborate with faculty, postdoctoral researchers, students, and staff
Whether you are collecting samples in the field, assisting with research experiments, or helping maintain honeybee colonies, your efforts will directly contribute to advancing pollinator health!
What We Need
A cover letter and resume outlining your interest and how your experience and goals align with the potential for mutual success in the role are required for consideration.
- High school diploma and up to 1 year of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience.
- Must have and maintain a valid and unrestricted NYS driver’s license and be cleared to drive for university business.
- Prior experience in a laboratory setting working with bees.
- Prior knowledge of safety protocols in a lab setting and proper waste handling.
- Experience with Microsoft office suite – including Word, PowerPoint and Excel and familiarity with outlook.
- Experience with research.
- Ability to communicate verbally and written with faculty, staff, and students.
- Experience modeling values that support inclusion, belonging, and wellbeing.
It Would Be a Bonus if You Have Any of the Following
- At least 3.5 years of undergraduate experience.
- Multiple years of experience working in a laboratory setting with bees.
- Experience with DNA extraction, PCR, and bumble bee identification.
- Multiple years of experience with R and publishing peer-reviewed research.
Important Notes About Applying
- A cover letter and resume outlining your interest and how your experience and goals align with the potential for mutual success in the role are required for consideration.
- This position is fully onsite and located on the Ithaca campus.
- There is no relocation assistance available for this position.
- There is no visa sponsorship available for this position.
With a founding principle of “... any person ... any study,” Cornell is an equal opportunity employer.