Academic Job Description
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

To provide leadership for an active research group conducting research on pathogenesis, stress response, transmission as well as evolution, ecology, and population genetics of foodborne and zoonotic pathogens (including Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella) and spoilage organisms, including supervision of graduate students and technicians. The incumbent will be expected to develop and carry out a research program on applied food safety for multiple food commodities (e.g. produce, meat, dairy, etc.), molecular biology, pathogenesis, molecular epidemiology, evolution, stress response, and transmission of food and waterborne, zoonotic, and other bacterial pathogens and/or spoilage organisms.

Responsibilities will include conducting qualitative and quantitative research, including data analysis, dissemination and application of research findings, reporting of results and preparation of manuscripts, and developing research proposals for external funding. This position will also specifically support whole genome sequencing and RNA-seq efforts in the Wiedmann and Martin lab.

1 year appointment, pending renewable funding, available work, and performance; position is full-time.

Anticipated Division of Time

The incumbent is expected to coordinate and manage a strong research program in applied food safety, microbial ecology, molecular biology, pathogenesis, evolution, stress response, and transmission of food and waterborne, zoonotic, and other bacterial pathogens and/or spoilage organisms. Specific responsibilities will include:

• Plan, perform, and conduct experiments, including field experiments (30%);
• Supervise graduate students and technicians (20 %);
• Prepare manuscripts and help with manuscript preparation (35%);
• Prepare and submit research proposals for funding by USDA, NIH, and other agencies and foundations to support the incumbent’s research and activities (10%); and
• Represent the research group by attending and presenting at scientific conferences, seminars, workshops, and meetings (5%). Opportunities exist for the development of an independent research program.

 Requirements

Supervision Exercised

Functional supervision will be exercised over technical support staff, as well as graduate and undergraduate students involved in research.

To apply:

Please apply via Academic Jobs Online https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/28073.

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 $75,000 to $78,000

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.