Cornell University, Department of Global Development
(posted 2025/10/21, listed until 2026/04/21)Position Description
Department of Global Development
Postdoctoral 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
This full-time Postdoctoral Research Associate will lead research at the intersection of crop-switching, environmental resilience, and agrifood sustainability. The candidate will develop and apply spatial analysis, remote sensing, and modeling to evaluate the technical, environmental, and socioeconomic implications of transitioning to resilient crops in the Northeastern U.S. and comparable temperate regions.
The postdoc will: (1) build geospatial datasets and remote sensing pipelines, (2) integrate crop, hydrologic, and GHG/energy models to quantify trade-offs among yield, water, emissions, biodiversity, etc., (3) create decision-support tools and maps to guide farmers, extension agents, and policy partners, and (4) collaborate on co-production activities with community and stakeholders. The position includes opportunities to lead and co-??author high-impact publications, mentor students, and contribute to grant reporting and new proposals. Initial appointment is for one year with annual renewal contingent on performance and funding.
Anticipated Division of Time
Research & Tool-building (60%) – Geospatial/RS analytics; model design and validation; reproducible workflows.
Stakeholder Collaboration (20%) – Co-develop decision tools; synthesize partner data; occasional site visits across NYS.
Publications & Dissemination (15%) – Lead/assist manuscripts and conference papers.
Mentoring & Project Coordination (5%) – Mentor graduate/undergraduate research assistants; coordinate with interdisciplinary research team and partners.
Requirements
- Ph.D. (by start date) in Geography, Environmental Science, Earth Systems Science, Natural Resources, Sustainability, or closely related field.
- Demonstrated expertise in spatial analysis & GIS and remote sensing for land/water/agricultural applications.
- Strong programming skills in Python and/or R (geospatial stacks, data wrangling, visualization).
- Record of peer-reviewed publications commensurate with career stage and strong scientific writing skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with community partners and an interdisciplinary team; excellent communication skills.
Supervision Exercised
The postdoc will mentor graduate and undergraduate researchers and may provide functional supervision to research staff and student assistants consistent with CALS guidelines.
To apply:
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. Preference will be given to applications submitted by December 15, 2025.
CALS hiring range for this title is University minimum to “Justification Approved Rate”.
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.
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 Office of Civil Rights at voice (607) 255-2242, or email at accommodations@cornell.edu.
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EEO Statement:
Cornell welcomes students, faculty, and staff with diverse backgrounds from across the globe to pursue world-class education and career opportunities, to further the founding principle of “... any person ... any study.” No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally protected status or subjected to prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex, 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.
Cornell University embraces diversity in its workforce and seeks job candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff of all identities and backgrounds. We hire based on merit, and encourage people from historically underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply. Consistent with federal law, Cornell engages in affirmative action in employment for qualified protected veterans as defined in the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRRA) and qualified individuals with disabilities under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law.
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:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- Three references (actual letters acceptable but not required, just names and email addresses )
Further Info:
Cornell University
240 Warren Hall
Ithaca, NY 14853