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
The Tako Lab conducts multidisciplinary research that links between the research fields of Food Science and Nutrition. Overall research focuses on various aspects of (a) dietary trace mineral deficiencies, cause and effects, with emphases on the physiological and nutritional factors and practices that influence the intestinal absorption of micronutrients, specifically iron and zinc. (b) the characterization of the individual and interactive effects of dietary minerals (Fe/Zn), phytochemicals and prebiotics common to staple foods on the intestinal microbiome and BBM functionality. Evaluation of plant origin bioactive compounds extracted from food crops on mineral (Fe, Zn) dietary bioavailability and absorption in vivo. In this context, we use approaches that utilize both cellular and unique animal (Gallus gallus, both hatchling and embryonic) models to assess mineral bioavailability of staple food crops, and plant origin bioactive compounds. In general, my research is focused at: 1. Alleviating dietary mineral deficiencies in at-risk populations; 2. The development of a novel zinc status physiological blood biomarker (the LA:DGLA ratio); 3. The study of the effects of mineral deficiencies (Zn and Fe) on the intestinal brush border membrane functionality using the Gallus gallus model; 4. The interplay between nutrient intake and gene expression (nutrigenomics) relevant to Fe and Zn deficiency; 5. The interactions between host Fe and Zn status and the gut microbiome; and 6. The characterization of the individual and interactive effects of dietary minerals (Fe/Zn), phytochemicals and prebiotics common to staple foods (chickpea, bean, wheat, lentil) on the intestinal microbiome and BBM functionality. Evaluation of plant origin bioactive compounds extracted from food crops on mineral (Fe, Zn) dietary bioavailability and absorption in vivo.
The Postdoctoral Associate will support and supervise the research activity by organizing the lab, purchasing, keeping necessary laboratory records, conforming to safety regulations, and performing laboratory techniques under the direction of the principal investigator. Daily activities include but are not limited to record keeping and care of the Gallus gallus model (CU poultry farm), intra amniotic (embryonic) administration, tissue and samples collection, surgical procedures, samples screening and analyses, DNA/RNA extraction (tissue and microbial), PCR, RT-PCR, gel electrophoresis, Western Blot, HPLC and histological procedures such as IHC. The individual will also be responsible for general lab support, maintenance, and training of students with basic technical tasks as needed.
Having excellent organizational, communication, and multi-tasking skills, as well as strong ability to attend to details and manual dexterity are essential and required. Working hours can be negotiated based on the individual needs/requests and experimental plans of the lab. Must be flexible and have ability to work occasional weekends.
This is a full time, one-year, Postdoctoral Associate position to support research activities under the direction of the principal investigator, with possible extension dependent on funding and performance.
The job function of this opening is summarized below:
Responsibilities:
Anticipated Division of Time:
Requirements:
Academic training:
Supervision Exercised:
Supervision of undergraduate and graduate students
To apply:
Please apply via Academic Jobs Online https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/26890
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 wage for this title $56,484.
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
Life. Changing.
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Pay Range:
$56,484.00 - $80,000.00
Pay Ranges:
The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined considering the following criteria:
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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.
2023-12-19Cornell 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.
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