Career Center

Research Associate

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

The position requires an experienced scientist who will organize independently to support collaborator breeding programs with genotypic and multi-environment trial analysis in a genomic mate selection pipeline presenting the best clones to select and cross. The scientist with iteratively improve the pipeline and integrate it into the breeding management database, Cassavabase.

The scientist will develop innovative independent research translating cassava genomic innovations to breeding practice. Innovations include the development of a practical haplotype graph (PHG) for DNA marker imputation, and the identification of potentially deleterious alleles. The scientist will develop methods leveraging these innovations to improve cassava association genetics and test methods on breeding program data. The scientist will propose possible directions to the PI, prioritize, complete comprehensive literature reviews, implement and test. The scientist will publish methods and results, train graduate students and postdocs in the lab, and contribute to grant writing supporting international breeding modernization. Pipelines integrated into Cassavabase will be documented and included in training given to breeding program partners.

The NextGen Cassava operates in effect as a breeding company, with the scientist joining its "Research Division". The candidate will adopt effective management and leadership providing excellent preparation for a future career in industry or academia.

Term is one year renewable to two years contingent on performance.

Anticipated Division of Time

25% NextGen Cassava breeding program data analysis and decision support

50% Research and development of methods leveraging novel genomic innovations to accelerate gain from selection in cassava and other clonally propagated crops, writing and publishing.

25% Formal and informal training of lab members and collaborators in statistical genetics and genomics. Annual report preparation.

Requirements

PhD in plant or animal breeding with emphasis on quantitative methods, or quantitative or population genetics is required. Proficiency in R. Demonstrated communication skills, both written and verbal. Three or more years of quantitative genetics or genomics research beyond the PhD.

Preferred qualifications: Management and leadership soft skills. Experience in plant breeding practice, knowledge of databases / database programming / software development / version control / reproducible programming skills.

Supervision Exercised

This position may supervise graduate students and, collaboratively with the PI, postdocs.

To apply:

Qualified candidates should submit a short cove r letter, curriculum vit ae, contact

CALS hiring range for this title is $65,000 - $72,000

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 (faculty pay ranges reflects 9-month annual salary)

• Unique applicable skills.

Employment Assistance:

Applicants that do not have internet access are encouraged to visit your local library, or local Department of Labor. You may also visit the office of Workforce Recruitment and Retention Monday - Friday between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. to use a dedicated workstation to complete an online application.

Notice to Applicants:

EEO Statement:

Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University's heritage. We are a recognized employer and educator valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations. Cornell University is an innovative Ivy League 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.