Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY

Position:  Research Associate

Location: Cornell University, Ithaca NY

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) is a pioneer of purpose-driven science and home to Cornell University’s second largest population of students, faculty and staff. 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: natural and human systems; food, energy and environmental resources; and social, physical and economic well-being.  CALS is fundamentally invested in improving the lives of people, their environments and their communities both in New York state and around the world.

Position Description (General): Research Associate with relevant expertise in biogeochemical modeling (including AI/machine learning), sustainable agriculture, and carbon removal via soil amendments, particularly enhanced weathering through rock dust additions to cropland soil. Lab analysis – including soil, plant, dissolved chemistry – carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus; trace metals; dissolved inorganic carbon and alkalinity. Greenhouse gas analysis with field deployed analyzers and automated systems. Supervise preparation of samples for analysis, coordinate distributed field activities, analyze large and complex data sets, prepare manuscripts for scientific publication, proposal writing, and present results at relevant scientific meetings. Engage with external stakeholders including farmers, ranchers, NGOs, government policy, and industry.

Position Description (Specific Research): Support an ongoing, collaborative set of projects across urban and rural agriculture involving enhanced weathering, and lab experiments in growth chambers and greenhouses. Testing of the efficacy farmland carbon capture via rock dust (enhanced weathering) across field demonstrations and the corresponding development of new predictive models. Additional research is focused on global modeling of carbon sequestration benefits, cropland nutrient use efficiency, co-benefits of carbon sequestration across demonstration sites, and the creation of new algorithms to predict carbon sequestration across systems and amendments.

Anticipated Division of Effort:

Manuscript Preparation and Proposal Writing: 25%

Data Analyses: 20%

Supervisory (oversee graduate students, technicians, equipment, lab and field work, supplies): 50%

Attend meetings: 5%

Qualifications: Ph.D. in a relevant field with at least five years of relevant research experience is required.

Salary: $60,000-$72,371

Supervision: Benjamin Houlton

Application Instructions:

Interested applicants should submit a CV, cover letter, research and/or extension statement, contact information for 3 references and a statement of contribution to diversity, equity, and inclusion via Academic Jobs Online at the following link: https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/22091.  Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a candidate is selected or the application deadline which is August 13, 2022.  

Diversity and inclusion are a part of Cornell University’s heritage. We’re an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and individuals with Disabilities. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations.

Employment Assistance: 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 Department of Inclusion and Workforce Diversity at voice (607) 255-3976, fax (607) 255-7481, or email at owdi@cornell.edu. For general questions about the position or the application process, please contact the Recruiter listed in the job posting. Applicants that do not have internet access are encouraged to visit your local library, or local Department of Labor. You may also visit the office of Workforce Recruitment and Retention Monday - Friday between the hours of 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. to use a dedicated workstation to complete an online application. Notice to Applicants: 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, Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations. Cornell University is an innovative Ivy League 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.