School of Integrative Plant Science, Cornell AgriTech, Cornell University
Location: Cornell AgriTech, Geneva, NY 14456. The academic home for this position is in the School of Integrative Plant Science (SIPS) in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, housed on the Geneva campuses of Cornell University
The School of Integrative Plant Science (SIPS) in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) at Cornell University welcomes applications for a 9-month, full-time tenure-track position with an emphasis on seed biology and technology at the Assistant Professor level. We are seeking a highly collaborative individual to work on problems related to seed vigor, germination, and stand establishment; all critical needs for sustainable crop production under climate variability and in emerging high-growth fields, such as controlled environment agriculture.
Availability of high-quality seed is often a significant bottleneck in plant breeding, genetics, physiology, and other areas of plant science research, and expertise in seed biology will significantly enhance other Cornell research programs. This position is critical for our sustainable agroecosystem programs. This program works together to design integrated management strategies and includes seed science, horticulture/fertility, plant pathology, entomology, and weed science combining expertise from Cornell faculty, Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE), and growers across New York.
Responsibilities:
This position has an effort split of 60% research and 40% extension.
Research (60%): Research areas may include, but are not limited to: seed quality, including seed production, germplasm conservation, genetic and production research; development of seed treatment technologies, such as the delivery of microbes, elicitors, biochemicals, chemicals, and nanoparticles, for enhancing germination, seedling emergence, plant health and crop performance; seed dormancy and longevity mechanisms of weedy and invasive species and manipulation thereof, to improve management; and seed systems that influence biodiversity, risk, and germplasm conservation.
Extension (40%): Extension efforts will drive collaborative partnerships on post-harvest seed technology with extension educators, crop consultants, seed companies, and biotech companies. Extension responsibilities include development of curricula for training stakeholders in seed-related matters, including seed saving and post-harvest storage as it relates to developing a vibrant local seed industry, as well as enhancing urban farming programs. The candidate will provide faculty leadership for the Annual Cornell Seed Conference, the Cornell Seed Growers Field Day, and the annual Cornell Production Guides as they relate to seed issues. Supporting efforts of the Vegetable Breeding Institute and the NY Seed Improvement Project on seed related issues is expected. The faculty in the position will collaborate with Cornell Cooperative Extension, NYS Integrated Pest Management, the Cornell Seed Improvement Project, USDA-Plant Genetics Resource Unit and the NYS Vegetable Grower Association, Northeast Organic Farming Association of NY.
Affiliation: The successful candidate will be a tenure-line faculty member of the Cornell University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and will be based in the School of Integrative Plant Science (SIPS) with the option to join one of the two SIPS sections on the AgriTech campus. This hire will be based in the collaborative, interdisciplinary community on the Cornell AgriTech campus in Geneva, New York.
Qualifications: The successful candidate will have a Ph.D. in Horticulture, Crop Science, Seed Biology, Seed Science and Technology, or related discipline, demonstrate potential to excel in the research and extension activities described above, display excellence in communication and collaboration across a variety of audiences, and the contribute to a culture of inclusive excellence through leadership and delivery of inclusive research and extension programs.
Application and Starting Date: The anticipated start date is July 2024, or as negotiated. Qualified applicants should submit single PDF's for each section of their application, to include: 1) a cover letter briefly summarizing background, qualifications, and interest in the position; 2) a Curriculum vitae, 3) a research statement outlining experience, interests, and goals (2 pages maximum); 4) a statement describing your extension experience and/or philosophy and interests (2 pages maximum); 5) 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”; 6) the names and contact information of four references (letters will be requested after the applications are reviewed), and 7) unofficial academic transcripts. Materials should be submitted online to:https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/26391. Initial screening of applications will begin January 2, 2024, and continue until the position is filled.
Cornell University offers a competitive salary and benefits package. Support for start-up costs will be available. Salary is commensurate with experience.
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.
Cornell University seeks to meet the needs of dual career couples, has a Dual Career program, and is a member of the Upstate New York Higher Education Recruitment Consortium to assist with dual career searches including positions available in higher education in the upstate New York area.
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.
