Cornell University, Molecular Biology & Genetics
Position Description
The CELLestials Lab led by Dr. Ayshwarya Subramanian at Cornell University is seeking a highly motivated researcher to develop and apply cutting-edge artificial intelligence approaches for conservation genomics.
The
successful candidate will lead the development of novel AI frameworks
that:
(i) integrate thousands of genome assemblies and multimodal biological datasets to uncover the genomic determinants of species resilience, adaptation, and extinction vulnerability, and
(ii) translate these genomic insights into actionable, decision-ready strategies for conservation.
This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the frontier of AI, genomics, and conservation biology, collaborating with world-class researchers while working with some of the largest genomic datasets (e.g. Vertebrate Genomes Project (VGP), California Conservation Genomes Project (CCGP) ever assembled.
The project is part of GAIA (Genomic Artificial Intelligence Applications), a major collaborative initiative that brings together partners from Revive & Restore, the Vertebrate Genome Laboratory at Rockefeller University, and other academic and non-academic collaborators including Google AI Genomics, thus expanding opportunities for networking and mentorship. Together, the consortium is building transformative AI tools to accelerate biodiversity science and enable data-driven conservation interventions. This position is supported by the Bezos Earth Fund.
Two central goals of
GAIA are:
- to build an AI Genome Curation Assistant (Jarvis):
an AI system that combines modern machine learning approaches with
large-scale biological data to automate genome curation by detecting,
interpreting, and correcting structural errors, reducing manual effort
from weeks to minutes thus that allowing to scale up to thousands of
species per year;
- To build Genera, a multimodal AI system that integrates genomic and ecological data to assess extinction risk and generate actionable genetic rescue strategies for conservation practitioners.
The candidate will benefit from access to a vibrant and deeply interdisciplinary research ecosystem at Cornell, including the Cornell AI Initiative, Cornell Biodiversity Initiative, K. Lisa Yang Center for Wildlife Heath, Center for Comparative and Population Genetics, the Lab of Ornithology, and the Center for Vertebrate Genomics - providing exceptional opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and intellectual exchange.
- PhD Degree in computational biology, bioinformatics, computer science, electrical engineering, or a related field.
- 3+ years of experience achieving impactful results including publications using relevant AI/ML/related techniques and genomic data analysis.
- Background in and motivation for genomics or/and biodiversity conservation studies.
- Strong background in AI/ML fundamentals and extensive experience with deep learning (DL) methods.
- Demonstrated proficiency in Python and machine learning frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, Jax, scikit-learn) applied to genomic/related datasets.
- Experience with sequence modeling architectures and interpretable AI methods (SHAP, Integrated Gradients, etc.).
- Demonstrated ability to stay up to date with advances in AI and apply new methods to research problems.
- Independent, highly motivated, and collaborative researcher able to work effectively with multidisciplinary teams.
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 (no actual letters, just names and email addresses
)
Further Info:
107 Biotech Building
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY 14853