"Research Associate - Natural Resources and the Environment"

Research Associate - Natural Resources and the Environment

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

When introduced plant species become invasive; individuals, management agencies and conservation organizations struggle to mount appropriate responses to reduce threats to native species and ecosystems. The Blossey Lab at Cornell University has a long history of developing innovative approaches to study these impacts and in developing management approaches using host specific insects (biological weed control). Our work has been supported by many federal and state agencies, most prominently over the last decade by the New York State Departments of Conservation and Transportation. Work to enhance understanding of invasion impacts and its management is a core function of the NY Invasive Species Research Institute (NYISRI). The Research Associate will need a strong academic background, ability to analyze long-term datasets and publish in scientific journals to assist PI Bernd Blossey in the further enhancement of NYISRI as a leader in invasion science and biological control.

We are looking for a broadly trained individual with strong quantitative skills who is interested in invasion ecology, plant-herbivore interactions, different trophic levels, and people. The successful candidate is expected to enhance and co-lead the research programs targeting various non-native species (Phragmites, Japanese knotweeds, water chestnut, and others). The work will include a mix of field, lab and quarantine work, analyses of existing long-term datasets, and development of social science projects aiming to better understand impacts of non-native species, use of biological control using insects and public acceptance of these methods. The position requires active engagement with graduate students, supervising undergraduate students, management agencies and international collaborators. We expect excellent writing skills addressing both scientific and professional audiences, and interest in applying research results to conservation, management practices, teaching, and extension.

Anticipated Division of Time

• Development/implementation of approaches to assess invasive species impacts: 40%
• Literature review, data analyses, report writing, publications: 40%
• Supervision of technicians and UG students: 10%
• Grant writing support: 10%

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Entomology, Ecology, or Biological Control, including training in and experience of methods the position requires.
• Demonstrated capacity for independent, critical thinking, intellectual leadership and ability to publish research in peer reviewed publications.
• Evidence of ability to work collaboratively and independently.

Supervision Exercised

The individual is expected to supervise technical staff, postdoctoral associates, graduate students and undergraduate research assistants.

To apply:

Qualified candidates should submit a short cover letter, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references via the website.

Inquiries about position specifics can be directed to Dr. Bernd Blossey (bb22@cornell.edu).

Review of applications will begin 15 February 2023.

Applications will be reviewed as received, continuing until a suitable applicant is identified.

CALS hiring range for this title is $74,000.