The management is very approachable and work-life balance was great. I never had a problem using vacation time. Most coworkers are extremely competent.
Cons
Compensation was well below average. Several years of layoffs have been detrimental to morale. The location of the facility is not public transit friendly.
Mendel had a great sense of family while I was there. Most people at all levels--technicians, scientists, administration, management--were approachable and worked very hard. I had the sense that I was working for a team. Colleagues were very smart. The science was usually exciting.
Cons
Feasibility of some of the research projects wasn't always good; too little time and not enough hands often made for too many crunch times and stressed technicians. Local lunch options are not great. Commuting by public transit is difficult since Mendel is far from the BART station. Commuting by car is better but still difficult because Mendel is at a major, congested freeway intersection.