Academic Job Description
Department of Entomology
Postdoctoral 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 requires an experienced scientist who will study the biology, ecology and management of the Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata) and other major pests of potato in New York. This individual will be required to identify and implement effective integrated pest management programs for multiple potato pests without using neonicotinoids and insecticides known to be harmful to beneficial insects including honeybees. Additionally, the susceptibility of Colorado potato beetle populations to commonly used insecticides will be determined. This information will be used to develop risk assessment models for mitigating insecticide resistance. This position will require collaboration with other entomologists, plant breeders, extension educators, agricultural industry personnel and potato growers. There is an expectation to travel to potato farms and maintaining a valid driver’s license is required. Research results are expected to be published in peer-reviewed journals and extension newsletters.
Anticipated Division of Time
Research: 70%; Extension: 25%; Service: 5%.
Requirements
Ph.D. in entomology or closely related discipline. Desire an individual with a background in applied insect ecology, pest management, statistics, and familiarity with agricultural production. Driving will be required as well. Several years of experience working in annual cropping systems, conducting laboratory-based bioassays and familiarity using GIS are all highly desirable.
Supervision Exercised
Individual will be required to assist supervising temporary research assistants and research technicians.
Start date: Anticipated start of February 1, 2026.
To apply:
Please apply via Academic Jobs Online (https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/30970).
Qualified candidates should submit a short cover letter, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references via the website.
Applications will be reviewed as received, continuing until a suitable applicant is identified.
CALS hiring salary for this title is $62,232.
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.
With a founding principle of “any person, any study,” Cornell is an equal opportunity employer.
Pay Range:
$62,232.00 - $88,745.00
Pay Ranges:
The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined considering the following criteria:
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 Office of Civil Rights at voice (607) 255-2242, or email at accommodations@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:
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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.
2025-10-31Cornell 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. With our main campus located in Ithaca, NY, Cornell's far-flung global presence includes the medical college's campuses on the Upper East Side of Manhattan and Doha, Qatar, as well as the Cornell Tech campus located on Roosevelt Island in the heart of New York City.
We offer a rich array of services, programs and benefits to help employees advance in their career and enhance the quality of personal life, including: employee wellness, workshops, childcare and adoption assistance, parental leave, flexible work options.