Cornell University, School of Integrative Plant Science – Section of Plant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology - Geneva
finished (2021/10/21, finished 2022/06/04)*** this position has been closed and new applications are no longer accepted. ***
Position Description
Cornell University – College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
School of Integrative Plant Science – Section of Plant Pathology and Plant Microbe Biology
Cornell AgriTech at the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station, Geneva, New York
Post-Doctoral Associate Position
Position Function
The College of Agriculture and Life Science 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 prove and the answers we seek focus on three overlapping concerns: natural and human systems; food, energy and environmental resources; and social, physical and economic well-being.
This is a one year renewable appointment up to a maximum of 5 years within the Plant Pathology and Plant Microbe Biology Section of the School of Integrative Plant Science, Cornell University, Cornell AgriTech, Geneva, NY 14456. The position is currently available with a start date as soon as possible.
Applications are sought for a post-doctoral research position studying pathogens of hemp (Cannabis sativa <0.3% tetrahydrocannabinol), which is grown for grain, fiber, and cannabinoid production.
Pathogens cause significant yield loss to vegetable growers and can be limiting factors to production in New York. This project has the goal of furthering our understanding of biology, epidemiology, host resistance, and genomics, of pathogens of hemp including powdery mildew (Golovinomyces ambrosiae) and downy mildew (Pseudoperonospora cannabina). This project requires working closely with breeders to identify host resistance as well as pathogen effectors.
The position entails working with colleagues across the US to gain a better understanding of the pathogens of hemp, characterize pathogen populations, and identify resistant cultivar. This information will be used to develop effective disease management recommendations for growers in New York. Research will involve laboratory, greenhouse and field experiments, molecular and bioinformatic sills, data collection including disease assessment of research trials, and data analyses. The goal of the project is to increase our understanding of the pathogens of hemp and reduce impact on yield. This is a team-oriented project and interest in working across disciplines including plant pathology, plant breeding and horticulture is critical. The successful candidate will work primarily with Dr. Christine Smart and will take a lead role in design, implementation, and data analysis for the project.
This is a one year term appointment that is renewable upon successful performance and funding.
Anticipated Division of Time
Research: (75%)
· Conduct independent and collaborative research under the general direction of PI, to design and carry out genome-wide experiments. These include:
o Collect ample quantities of hemp pathogens G. ambrosiae and P. cannabina, and extract DNA to perform genome sequencing.
o Perform bioinformatic analyses on sequence data
· Conduct independent and collaborative research under the general direction of PI, to isolate and characterize populations of hemp pathogens.
o Work with team members to collect and isolate pathogens
o Determine the best platform for genome-wide analyses for population studies
o Isolate genomic DNA, and perform genotyping-by -sequencing
o Analyze results using bioinformatic tools
· Conduct independent and collaborative research under the general direction of PI, to screen breeding lines for resistance to hemp pathogens
Research Communication (15%): Publish peer-reviewed journal articles, present at scientific meetings, seminars, workshops and assist with the coordination of data for extension/outreach materials.
Proposal Development (5%): Support the development of new research proposals.
Personal and Professional Development: (5%)
· Continuously seek out and obtain training to enhance position performance.
- Regularly take advantage of workshops and programs to further develop experience and skill level.
- Through staff meetings provide input into research projects based on observations and experiences.
- Various other duties as assigned.
Requirements
The position requires a Ph.D. in a relevant discipline at time of appointment (e.g., Plant Pathology, Genetics, Microbiology, Plant Breeding) and experience with bioinformatics.
Supervision Exercised
Provide general training and assistance to temporary technicians and undergraduate researchers in the lab including helping new lab members learn necessary skills following established best practices.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should apply online at Academic Jobs Online at https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/20190 with a letter of motivation, Curriculum Vitae, statement of contribution to diversity, equity and inclusion and names and contact information for three references.
Employment Assistance:
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.
If you require an accommodation for a disability in order to complete an employment application or to participate in the recruiting process, you are encouraged to contact Cornell University's Office of Institutional Equity and Title IX at voice (607) 255-2242, or email at equity@cornell.edu.
Applicants that do not have internet access are encouraged to visit your local library, or local Department of Labor. You may also request an appointment to use a dedicated workstation in the Office of Talent Attraction and Recruitment, at the Ithaca campus, by emailing mycareer@cornell.edu.
Please read the required Notice to Applicants statement by clicking here. This notice contains important information about applying for a position at Cornell as well as some of your rights and responsibilities as an applicant.
EEO Statement:
Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University’s heritage. We are a recognized employer and educator valuing AA/EEO, and we do not tolerate discrimination based on any protected characteristic, including race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex/gender, pregnancy or pregnancy-related conditions, age, creed, religion, actual or perceived disability (including persons associated with such a person), arrest and/or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, an individual’s genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law.
Cornell University embraces diversity and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff from all identities and backgrounds. We encourage individuals from underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply.
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:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Letter of Motivation
- statement of contribution to diversity, equity, and inclusion
- Three references (no actual letters, just names and email addresses )
Further Info:
Barton Laboratory
15 Castle Creek Drive
Geneva, NY 14456