Research Associate- Plowright Laboratory

team will include colleagues at Johns Hopkins University, the Wildlife Conservation Society, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University College of Human Ecology, and Cornell University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Responsibilities include: Co-design, plan, and execute bat experiments at Cornell University. Co-lead the ecological components of the field research focused on understanding how bats respond to global change and how these responses influence pathogen spillover. Co-design spatial and temporal sampling strategies in collaboration with geospatial scientists, ecologists, and epidemiologists. Lead analyses and interpretation and the preparation of manuscripts and presentations arising from the experimental and ecological field components, in collaboration with the Center's team. Help coordinate biomarker development, validation, and field deployment. Represent the research area in cross-team coordination and contribute to the broader research program's scientific direction. Help mentor and support trainees on the team. Contribute to the preparation of donor reports and other project deliverables. Requirements: This position requires a PhD in disease ecology, ecological immunology, epidemiology, veterinary medicine, ecology, or related fields. Demonstrated experience conducting animal or wildlife research; designing experiments; handling and sampling wildlife; and working with infectious-disease or physiological/ecological data. Ability to develop, adapt, and apply quantitative methods to answer ecological questions. A strong record of conducting independent research and scholarly activities, including publication in peer-reviewed journals. Ability to work effectively as part of a multi-disciplinary research team. Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a collaborative, fast-paced research environment. Experience in the management of research, scientific, or academic projects. Creative and critical-thinking skills with a demonstrated ability to develop innovative research approaches. Willingness to be based in Ithaca, NY. Ability to travel internationally for fieldwork in Indonesia and Bangladesh (up to one month per year in the field). Preferred: Excellent quantitative skills Experience working with bats Trainees from the Plowright lab have gone on to positions in academia, government, and non-profit organizations. If you are interested, please email Emma Spence (es957@cornell.edu) for more details. Applications will be reviewed as received, and the position will remain open until filled. Offers higher than the published salary range might be considered to meet unique circumstances, qualifications, academic discipline, and experience. Pay Range: Refer to Posting Language 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 Unique applicable skills. Employment Assistance: Notice to Applicants: 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 (VEVRAA) 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. 2026-09-30