Research Associate - Biological and Environmental Engineering

Academic Job Description

Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering

Research Associate

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

This position will focus on research in Biological and Environmental Engineering, specifically considering questions involving intracellular detoxification mechanisms and how biological processes affect the biogeochemical cycling of metals in both the natural environment and in engineered systems. The position will also support instructional and research laboratories in the Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering (Riley Robb Hall), reporting primarily to the Chair. The individual will advise faculty, staff, and students on lab facilities and management for courses; collaborate on planning and conducting research within our emerging shared lab facility model; provide and maintain a safe working environment as the principal member for the BEE safety committee and interfacing with the College and University safety officers; schedule use of facilities and major equipment; and maintain cost records and reviews of lab expenses. This position will be responsible for the design, construction, assembly, operation, maintenance and disassembly of teaching and research apparatus. This position will provide general technical support and training for faculty, students, and visiting scientists in the Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering.

Anticipated Division of Time

Major responsibilities of this position include:

Research (50%)

Carrying out original research relative to the laboratory mission to advance research on current projects in the lab. They will collaboratively chart new research pathways, focusing on developing cutting-edge research methods. The research associate will also participate in proposal development and research publications in peer-reviewed journals, mentoring graduate students and collaborating on research papers and presentations.

Mentoring and Advising (20%)

Assist other laboratory graduate, undergraduate, and research collaborators with scientific projects. Assist principal investigators in providing experimental and technical oversight of one or more technicians, graduate students, and/or postdoctoral associates fellows. Coordinate with collaborators to advance scientific research projects and proposals. Ensuring systems are in place for efficient planning of lab supplies, records and document management, experimental protocols and data, and coordination of good lab practices and lab safety.

Laboratory Management and Reporting (30%)

The Research Associate will assist with managing the shared research lab facility in BEE, including coordinating the setup, testing, maintaining, and disassembling of laboratory instrumentation in the shared facility and coordinating with service and company representatives, Cornell EH&S, CALS facilities management, and the building manager of Riley Robb Hall, as needed.

Requirements

Required Qualifications:

The position requires an experienced research scientist with a PhD in biological engineering or a related field and established expertise in experimental lab settings. They must have demonstrated ability to work safely with hazardous chemicals and be comfortable working in a dynamic environment. Must be able to interact effectively as part of a research team with users at all levels of competence. Electrical, mechanical, and biological troubleshooting skills are highly valued. Willingness to work patiently with a diverse population of researchers and students to ensure the safe and successful operation of lab equipment. Must demonstrate commitment to inclusive research practices and ability to collaborate on complex projects. Strong scientific writing and oral communication skills are required.

This is a one-year term, renewable contingent upon available work, funding and performance.

Supervision Exercised

Provide oversight and mentorship to undergraduate and graduate students.

To apply:

Please apply via Academic Jobs Online https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/29539

Qualified candidates should submit a short cover letter, curriculum vitae, contact information for three references, and a statement supporting diverse communities (this can be a stand-alone document (preferred) or the information can be embedded in other parts of the application materials) outlining how, through research, teaching, service, mentoring, extension, and/or outreach, the candidate has and will contribute to support Cornell's historical mission of "any person ... any study," via the website.

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

CALS hiring range for this title is University minimum to $72,000 - $80,000.

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Life. Changing.

Cornell University is an innovative Ivy League and Land-grant university and a great place to work. Our inclusive community of scholars, students, and staff impart an uncommon sense of larger purpose and contribute creative ideas to further the university's mission of teaching, discovery, and engagement.

Cornell's regional and global presence includes state-wide Cornell Cooperative Extension programs and offices in all counties and boroughs, global partnerships with institutions and communities engaged in life-changing research and education, the medical college's campuses on the Upper East Side of Manhattan and Doha, Qatar, and the Cornell Tech campus on Roosevelt Island in the heart of New York City.

Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University's heritage. We are a recognized employer and educator valuing AA/EEO, and we do not tolerate discrimination based on any protected characteristic, including race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex/gender, 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.We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law.

Cornell University embraces diversity and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff to all identities and backgrounds. We strongly encourage individuals from underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply.

Pay Range:

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.

Familiarize yourself with Cornell's COVID-19 workplace guidance as well as the university's COVID-19 services and information.

Employment Assistance:

For general questions about the position or the application process, please contact the Recruiter listed in the job posting or 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 University's Office of Institutional Equity and Title IX at voice (607) 255-2242, or email atequity@cornell.edu.

Applicants that do not have internet access are encouraged to visit your local library, or local Department of Labor. You may also request an appointment to use a dedicated workstation in the Office of Talent Attraction and Recruitment, at the Ithaca campus, by emailing mycareer@cornell.edu.

Notice to Applicants:

Please read the required Notice to Applicants statement by clicking here. This notice contains important information about applying for a position at Cornell as well as some of your rights and responsibilities as an applicant.

EEO Statement:

Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University's heritage. We are a recognized employer and educator valuing AA/EEO, and we do not tolerate discrimination based on any protected characteristic, including race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex/gender, 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. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law.

Cornell University embraces diversity and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff to all identities and backgrounds. We encourage individuals from underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply.