Postdoctoral Associate – Seed Biology & Technology

📋 Position Description

This position will support research on seed‑applied, non‑neonicotinoid protection strategies targeting early‑season crop pests including Delia spp. in New York cropping systems. The postdoctoral associate will design and conduct laboratory, greenhouse, controlled‑environment, and field experiments evaluating seed coating integrity, delivery characteristics of plant defense signaling compounds, and interactions with seed pathogens and early‑season pest pressure under cold soil conditions.

⏱️ Anticipated Division of Time

🎓 Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Seed Science, Crop Science, Plant Pathology, Plant Physiology, Entomology, or a related field
• Experience in seed biology, seed pathology, seed treatment technologies, or plant‑insect/plant‑microbe interactions
• Demonstrated ability to design and execute controlled experiments and analyze data
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research environment
• Valid and unrestricted NYS Driver’s License (must be cleared to drive university business)

⭐ Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with seed coating systems or delivery of biologically active compounds
• Familiarity with greenhouse and controlled‑environment experimentation
• Experience working in applied agricultural systems or IPM‑focused research
• Experience with analytical or quantitative techniques (e.g., GC‑MS, chromatography)
• Background in early‑season pest management, seed pathology, or soilborne pathogen systems

🌟 Additional Preferred Attributes

• Ability to independently lead complex, multi‑factor experiments and integrate data across systems
• Willingness to develop skills in analytical techniques (GC‑MS or related methods)
• Experience with statistical modeling, experimental design, and multivariate analysis using R, Python, SAS
• Ability to integrate laboratory, greenhouse, and environmental datasets for predictive analyses
• Interest in translating fundamental seed and plant defense biology into applied IPM solutions

📝 How to Apply

To apply, please submit the following materials via Academic Jobs Online (link below):

• Short cover letter detailing research experience and alignment with the position
• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Contact information for three references

💰 Compensation

The hiring rate for this position is $63,480 per year. Cornell University offers a comprehensive benefits package.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

📰 Related Opportunities

🔗 Important Links