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 The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences tackles the challenges of our times through purpose-driven science that advances understanding and improves life. The Department of Entomology is committed to creating an environment where diverse community members can thrive. For more information about the Department of Entomology, please visit https://cals.cornell.edu/entomology. Our lab studies the biochemical and molecular basis of insect midgut physiology and interactions of the midgut with host plants and microbial pathogens. Current research projects are focused on molecular genetics of insect resistance to insecticidal toxins from Bacillus turingiensis, using a lepidopteran pest Trichoplusia ni as the biological research system. We use biochemical and molecular approaches and genomic and proteomic technologies in our current projects to approach the research questions.

The Postdoctoral Associate will conduct research in the lab of Ping Wang (https://blogs.cornell.edu/wang/) to understand the molecular genetics of insect resistance to insecticidal toxins from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). Specifically, the Postdoctoral Associate will use biochemical and molecular approaches and genomic and proteomic technologies to map and identify genes involved in Bt toxin resistance in the cabbage looper, Trichoplusia ni. When new resistance genes are identified, the postdoc will functionally confirm the mutation by gene editing and study the biological functions of the genes. The Postdoctoral Associate will have ample opportunities to improve and enhance research skills and knowledge, and to develop expertise in areas of Bt resistance and insect molecular genetics research, while contributing to the current research projects in the Wang Lab.

Anticipated Division of Time This is a lab research position, including the following responsibilities: 1) managing the project (5%), 2) designing and conducting experiments and performing data analysis (75%), 3) writing project progress and manuscripts for publication (10%), and 4) collaborating and advising other trainees in lab (10%).

Requirements PhD degree in a biological discipline with a research background in insect genetics, molecular biology and/or biochemistry. Familiar with the research field of insect resistance to Bt toxins. Experience in bioinformatics will be advantageous. The postdoctoral associate will be a primary researcher for a USDA funded project, and will take a leading role in managing, designing, and conducting experiments in the project, periodically report project progress in writing and write manuscripts for publication when sufficient research results have been acquired. The postdoctoral associate is expected to be an integral team member of the lab by collaborating with colleagues in the lab and outside the lab under the direction of the PI.

Supervision Exercised Collaboration and supervision of students and technical staff working on this and related projects are required.

To apply:

Please apply via Academic Jobs Online (https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/27784).

Qualified candidates should submit a short cover letter, curriculum vitae, contact information for three references, and a statement supporting diverse communities (this can be a stand-alone document (preferred) or the information can be embedded in other parts of the application materials) outlining how, through research, teaching, service, mentoring, extension, and/or outreach, the candidate has and will contribute to support Cornell’s historical mission of “any person … any study,” via the website.

Applications will be reviewed as received, continuing until a suitable applicant is identified.

CALS hiring range for this title is $61,008.00

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.

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 to all identities and backgrounds. We strongly encourage individuals from underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply.