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
The Srikrishnan Research Group in the Department of Biological & Environmental Engineering at Cornell University invites applications for a Research Associate. The successful candidate will co-lead a research project in collaboration with researchers at the Environmental Defense Fund on understanding the climate consequences of hydrogen (H2) production and supply chain operations to help produce marginal abatement curves for H2 emissions. In particular, we are interested in:
- (a) quantifying the social cost of H2 emitted into the atmosphere, and
- (b) understanding the marginal greenhouse gas emissions associated with H2 generation from electric power.
This position is full-time, fully onsite, in-residence at Cornell in Ithaca, NY, with start date as early as August 1, 2026, though a later start date is negotiable. The initial appointment will be for a period of one year, with possibility of renewal for at least one additional year, contingent upon available work, funding, and successful performance. The salary will be competitive, commensurate with experience.
Anticipated Division of Time
Computational and Data Analysis (60%)
- Modify and calibrate simple climate models to include hydrogen cycles.
- Design and conduct computational experiments on the climate impacts of hydrogen emissions.
- Conduct relevant visual or quantitative statistical analyses.
- Help design any relevant decision support materials based on research outcomes.
Communication & Reporting (20%)
- Participate in project meetings with EDF partners and other stakeholders.
- Write and submit manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals.
- Help write project reports for sponsors.
- Present work at conferences and on project calls.
Mentoring (10%)
- Help mentor graduate and undergraduate students conducting research with the group as appropriate with experience and research scope.
Other Responsibilities (10%)
- Contribute to grant-writing activities within the scope of professional goals.
- Completion of any university-required compliance trainings.
- Participating in other projects aligned with professional goals.
Requirements
- PhD in Environmental Engineering, Earth Sciences, Climate Economics, or related field.
- Qualified candidates will have a strong quantitative background in a relevant discipline (e.g., environmental engineering, Earth sciences, climate economics, operations research, or statistics) and prior postdoctoral or professional experience.
- An ideal candidate would have proficient programming skills and demonstrated experience in computational modeling (particularly integrated assessment or power systems modeling) and data assimilation and an interest in analyzing climate risks.
- We especially value applicants who are highly motivated to collaborate across more than one discipline and who have good communications skills.
