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 Santomartino Lab in the Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering at Cornell University is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Associate to lead, develop and support innovative research at the intersection of microbial biotechnology, space biology, and sustainable solutions for plastic and electronic waste recycling. The successful candidate will join a growing space biotechnology team working to understand how microorganisms can support sustainable human space exploration through waste degradation and recycling. Insights gained will also be applied to the development of sustainable terrestrial biotechnologies addressing the plastic crisis, carbon revalorization, critical metal recovery, and circular bioeconomy approaches on Earth and in space. We are looking for an experienced scientist in bioengineering, molecular biology, and microbiology, with strong expertise in microbial and genetic engineering, synthetic biology, and an interest in space exploration and life in extreme environments. The Santomartino Lab is committed to supporting the Postdoctoral Associate's career advancement. The PI will provide structured mentorship, regular feedback, support career growth, including networking opportunities, conference participation, and professional visibility, and offer mentorship in scientific writing, manuscript development and grant writing. The successful candidate is also expected to mentor graduate and undergraduate researchers and to contribute to a collaborative, inclusive, and intellectually vibrant lab environment. This is a 12-month initial appointment, available immediately, with the possibility of renewal contingent upon available work, satisfactory performance and continued funding. Anticipated Division of Time Conduct experimental research, including characterizing mechanisms of plastic and e-waste degradation, genetic modification and engineering of model and non-model microorganisms, designing, troubleshooting, and optimizing experiments, collaborating with other lab members to support complementary projects, participating actively in weekly lab meetings and research discussions (65%); Write and publish high-quality peer-reviewed research articles, present findings at scientific conferences and professional meetings, contribute to data visualization, figure preparation, and professional scientific writing. (30%); Assist in the development of proposals for external funding for research projects. (5%) Requirements Required qualifications: A PhD degree in synthetic or molecular biology, microbiology, biotechnology or related fields. Demonstrated research experience in molecular biology, microbial genetics, genetic engineering, or synthetic biology Experience working with microorganisms (model or non-model organisms) and standard microbiological techniques A track record to work both independently and as part of a team, to own problem-solving skills, a high level of enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research, and capacity to learn new skills. Proven ability to independently conceptualize research questions and drive projects forward. Excellent organizational, communication and time management skills. Preferred Qualifications Candidates with experience in any of the following areas are especially encouraged to apply: Engineering non-model microorganisms or environmental isolates Multi-omics techniques (e.g., transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics) Microscopy methods, FT-IR spectroscopy, or other analytical imaging techniques Analysis of next-generation sequencing data Programming skills (e.g., Python, R) for data analysis, numerical modeling, or machine vision Supervision Exercised This position carries a high degree of independence. The Postdoctoral Associate will meet with the PI at least twice per week for research updates and mentorship, participate in and contribute to weekly lab meetings, collaborate with graduate students, undergraduate researchers, and technical staff, help mentor students working on related projects, contribute to maintaining a collegial, respectful, supportive, and inclusive lab culture. There are no supervisory responsibilities with this position.

To apply:

Please apply via Academic Jobs Online https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/31414 . 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 rate for this position 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: Prior relevant work or industry experience. Education level to the extent education is relevant to the position. Academic Discipline Unique applicable skills.

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:

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:

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. About Us 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. 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.