Cornell University, Department of Food Science
* (posted 2025/10/05, updated 2025/10/03)Position Description
Cornell University The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Department of Food Science, Research Associate The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) is a pioneer of purpose-driven science and Cornell University’s second largest college. We work across disciplines to tackle the challenges of our time through world-renowned research, education, and outreach. The questions we probe and the answers we seek focus on three overlapping concerns: We believe that achieving next-generation scientific breakthroughs requires an understanding of the world’s complex, interlocking systems. We believe that access to nutritious food and a healthy environment is a fundamental human right. We believe that ensuring a prosperous global future depends on the ability to support local people and communities everywhere. By working in and across multiple scientific areas, CALS can address challenges and opportunities of the greatest relevance, here in New York, across the nation, and around the world. Position Function: This position reports to Professor Abigail Snyder in the Department of Food Science at Cornell University. Responsibilities related to the research include carrying out the data analysis and modeling for the assigned projects. Responsibilities related to mentoring and supervising students include helping students with data analysis, experimental design, and manuscript development, which can be done virtually. The Research Associate needs to be an experienced researcher who will use various microbiology, data science, bioinformatic, and modeling skills to research a broad range of projects relevant to Food and Agriculture Sciences at the Department of Food Science at Cornell University. This individual will be involved in the following projects: • Modeling of cross-contamination • Quantitative microbial risk assessment • Covalent organic framework development • Analysis of genomic data • Statistical analysis and experimental design for the produce and dairy industries • Meta-analysis and systematic reviews The Research Associate will perform quantitative research and supervise all digital resources for the lab. In addition, they will be expected to develop new research ideas, design experiments, collect data, present the results, write reports/papers, and develop proposals. Key Responsibilities: • Design and conduct experiments in computational biology • Analyze and interpret experimental data, ensuring high standards of accuracy and reproducibility. • Write research proposals to secure funding from various sources. • Mentor and support graduate students, providing guidance and support in their research projects. • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to develop and execute research projects. • Publish research findings in high-impact scientific journals. • Present research findings at national and international conferences. • Stay current with the latest developments in the field of food microbiology and related areas. Anticipated Division of Time: • Conduct research: This will include designing experiments, writing grant proposals, analyzing results, and writing papers for publication (80% of effort) • Mentor and support graduate students (15% of effort) • Write reports, papers for publication in peer-reviewed journals, and grant proposals (5% of effort) Requirements: • Academic training: Ph.D. in food science, data science, or microbiology. • Evidence of ability to work independently • Experience with advanced quantitative techniques or methods. • Knowledge of current trends and advancements in microbiology/food safety research. • Over a year of postdoctoral experience in a relevant field. • Extensive lab experience in wet chemistry and synthesis. • Proven track record of publishing research in high-impact scientific journals. • Experience in writing research proposals and securing funding. • Strong mentoring skills with experience supporting students. • Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical-thinking skills. • Strong written and verbal communication skills. • Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team. • Attention to detail and strong organizational skills. Supervision Exercised: The incumbent of this position will be supervised by Professor Abigail Snyder. There are no supervising responsibilities with this position. To apply: Please apply via Academic Jobs Online (https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/30770). Qualified candidates should submit a short cover letter, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references via the website. Applications will be reviewed as received, continuing until a suitable applicant is identified. CALS hiring rate for this position is $76,500. College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Life. Changing. Cornell University is an innovative Ivy League and Land-grant university and a great place to work. Our inclusive community of scholars, students, and staff impart an uncommon sense of larger purpose and contribute creative ideas to further the university's mission of teaching, discovery, and engagement. Cornell’s regional and global presence includes state-wide Cornell Cooperative Extension programs and offices in all counties and boroughs, global partnerships with institutions and communities engaged in life-changing research and education, the medical college’s campuses on the Upper East Side of Manhattan and Doha, Qatar, and the Cornell Tech campus on Roosevelt Island in the heart of New York City. With a founding principle of “any person, any study,” Cornell is an equal opportunity employer.For specific questions about the position or application process, please contact the Recruiter listed in the job posting or for general questions email mycareer@cornell.edu.
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EEO Statement:
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Pay Ranges:
The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined considering the following criteria:
- Prior relevant work or industry experience.
- Education level to the extent education is relevant to the position.
- Academic Discipline (faculty pay ranges reflects 9-month annual salary)
- Unique applicable skills.
Application Materials Required:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- Three references (no actual letters, just names and email addresses )
Further Info: