Position Description

Extension Associate – NY Center for Organics Recycling and Education
Section of Soil and Crop Sciences
School of Integrative Plant Science
Cornell University
Ithaca, New York

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
We are seeking an Extension Associate to serve within the New York Center for Organics Recycling and Education (NYCORE) at Cornell University in Ithaca NY. The NYCORE is a new initiative that will continue the work of the Cornell Waste Management Institute to promote organics recycling in farming communities throughout NY State. Our goals are to deliver research-based knowledge, training, and technical support in service of organics recycling and reuse. The NYCORE will conduct research, develop, and document best management practices in all aspects of organics use. The NYCORE will also implement a multi-level strategy for knowledge delivery and education which includes messaging and social media, workshops and training, tours and in-person outreach, as well as providing access to a library of resources on our website. The Extension Associate will assist in achieving success for all NYCORE programmatic activities. A major responsibility of the position is to assist the Director and provide on-site training and technical assistance to farming communities and organic residual generators. Such activities will include training and technical support on composting methods, feedstock management, equipment selection, operations, compost application, and identification of haulers. Assist in supporting the efforts of industry organizations and partners to extend program information. Assist with other duties as appropriate to meet sponsor goals.

Anticipated Division of Time
35%- Conduct applied research and development into best practices in organics management as directed by the Center’s Director.

30%- Conduct outreach activities as directed to achieve program objectives.

25%- Provide technical support and training to those who generate, process, and apply organic residuals.

10%- Identify research and education needs for organic residuals management in NYS.

Requirements
M.S. in Soil Science, Plant Science, Environmental Engineering, or a related field is required plus 2 years of related experience.

The candidate must have some experience with the management of organic residuals including farm scale composting technologies and practices. Experience in agricultural extension, applied research, and animal mortality management are desirable.

Supervision Exercised
Incumbent will work at a high level of independence and will interact frequently with academic peers within and outside the university, and graduate and undergraduate students. Ability to travel independently to represent the program. Depending on project needs, incumbent may provide oversight of support staff to help with implementation of above activities. No formal supervisory responsibilities.

To apply:

Please apply via Academic Jobs Online (https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/30565).

 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 $76,000.

 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.

With a founding principle of “any person, any study,” Cornell is an equal opportunity employer.