Position Description
POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT
Department of Entomology
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
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: Postdoctoral Associate
SUMMARY: This position requires an experienced scientist to study the ecology of predator prey interactions and how to manipulate insect semiochemicals to protect plants in the Department of Entomology. This person will research biological control, including interactions mediated by a predatory stink bug and the prey itself to develop methods to control Colorado potato beetle. This position will combine field and lab experiments of insect behavior, movement, abundance, non-consumptive effects of predators, and plant induced resistance to investigate grower-friendly application methods that protect plants.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Experiments: 55%
• Study ecology of predator prey interactions and how to manipulate insect semiochemicals to protect plants
• Research biological control
• Conduct field and lab experiments
Data analysis and writing: 30%
• Translate statistical data and apply results
• Publish research results in peer reviewed publications
Undergraduate mentoring: 10%
• Train graduate and undergraduate students in field and laboratory protocols
Personal and professional development 5%
• Seek out and attend educational seminars and training workshops relevant to the research
• Attend lab meetings
• Continuously maintain all required educational and position qualifications to fulfill job requirements.
QUALIFICATIONS: PhD in Entomology, Ecology or related discipline
Knowledge in insect ecology and agroecology, experience with plant and insect care, experimental design, conducting field experiments with plants, herbivorous and predaceous insects, insect bioassay methods, undergraduate mentoring, driver’s license valid in NYS and register with Agile/Fleet Commander. Preferred: lab management, measuring insect movement, behavior, chemical assays
SUPERVISION EXERCISED:
Person will supervise undergraduate students in colony care, supervise undergraduate and a technical support for the Postdoctoral Associate’s projects, and mentoring undergraduates in independent projects.
SALARY: $62,652
APPLICATION:
Applications will be reviewed as received, continuing until a suitable applicant is identified.
If you have any questions about the position, please contact Jennifer Thaler at jst37@cornell.edu
Employment Assistance:
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.
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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.