Research Associate in Agricultural Sciences (Cornell University)

Research Associate Cornell Lab of Ornithology Center for Engagement in Science & Nature College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Cornell University Ithaca, New York, USA Description 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. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology is a unit within Cornell-CALS and is a world-leading center for research and education focused on birds and nature. The Cornell Lab’s mission is “to interpret and conserve the earth's biological diversity through research, education, and participatory science focused on birds.” One of six centers at the Lab, the Center for Engagement in Science & Nature engages the public by gathering biological information at large spatial scales while creating dynamic educational content and web applications through which the public can better understand the natural world. The Cornell Lab is widely viewed as a global leader in the field of public engagement, and in particular, participatory science, managing exemplary projects while pursuing methodological innovation for moving the field forward. Two large-scale participatory science projects are housed within the Center: NestWatch (nestwatch.org) has been gathering data on reproductive success in birds since the 1960s (>860,000 nest records), and FeederWatch (feederwatch.org) engages > 30,000 people annually in collecting protocol-driven data on bird abundance and distribution (millions of records across the U.S. and Canada since 1989). Position Function The Lab’s Center for Engagement in Science & Nature seeks a creative, collaborative scientist with experience in analyzing and publishing with “big data.” The successful candidate will contribute to cross-disciplinary research utilizing the Cornell Lab’s extensive biological data sets. The position provides the opportunity for collaboration with the global scientific community, as well as opportunities to engage a talented pool of students from Cornell University. Specifically, the research focuses on avian reproductive ecology (NestWatch dataset, nestwatch.org) and distribution and abundance (Project FeederWatch, feederwatch.org), with considerable freedom to pursue additional research interests aligned with the Center’s goals. Primary collaborators include the research team in the Center for Engagement in Science & Nature, additional researchers across Centers at the Lab of Ornithology including an extensive network of postdoctoral scholars (~25), researchers at Cornell University, and researchers external to the University. An essential job function is interfacing with the broader research community to publish findings and ensure that the Lab’s data resources are used to their full potential. While this position focuses on ecological research questions, the Center is heavily engaged in social science research focused on the practice of engaging the public in participatory science. Engaging in social-ecological research and collaboration with interdisciplinary research teams is key to success in this position. Key collaborators within the Center include Dr. David Bonter (co-Director), Dr. Tina Phillips (Assistant Director, social scientist), Dr. Olivia Sanderfoot (Leader, Project FeederWatch), Robyn Bailey (leader, NestWatch), and Kim Savides (ecological research assistant). Many opportunities also exist to mentor and engage Cornell undergraduate students in publishable research. Anticipated Division of Time Research (65%) Conduct and publish scientific research utilizing the Center’s and the Lab’s open access, big data resources, focusing on ecological research questions. Contribute and collaborate with researchers internal and external to Cornell to ensure publication of high-quality research in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Develop analytical approaches and R packages promoting best practices in analysis of the Lab’s data sets. Serve as a key point of contact for the members of the global research community who are interested in our platforms and data resources. Collaborate with the social science research team on research focused on the human dimensions of the Center’s work. Baseline expectations for research productivity are two first-authored papers per year in strong journals, plus additional co-authorships resulting from collaborations and mentoring. Attendance and presentation of research and workshops at relevant scientific conferences is expected (2-3 / year). Mentoring (15%) Independently and in collaboration with the Center’s co-Director, mentor Cornell University undergraduate students in conducting research leading to senior theses and peer-reviewed publications with the students as lead authors. Identify projects amenable to student training and success. While much of the work should focus on utilizing the Lab’s existing data resources, developing additional projects in ecology and ornithology is encouraged. Funding activities (10%) Partner with Lab and external collaborators to seek grants (Cornell, state, federal or foundation) to support research initiatives. Work with the Cornell Lab’s Advancement team to engage and steward our extensive and generous donor network. Outreach and Extension (10%) Work with the Center’s project teams and the Cornell Lab communications staff to disseminate findings to public audiences through the Lab’s online and print communication channels. Other ad hoc duties as assigned by the supervisor. Requirements PhD in a relevant field (e.g., ecology, biology, data science, natural resources, behavioral ecology) with extensive knowledge of research and literature in avian ecology. Strong record of publishing scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals. Proven success in mentoring undergraduate research. Mastery of R, strong documentation skills, and willingness to collaborate in the GitHub ecosystem are required. Preferred Requirements One or more years of postdoctoral research experience. Grasp of the literature in nesting/reproductive biology and/or foraging ecology. Previous experience with participatory science. Fluent in English, with additional language skills (Spanish or Portuguese) and experience with international collaboration are helpful. Salary Commensurate with experience. Hiring range for this title is $80,000 - $82,000. Appointment This is a full-time, 1-year term, with possibility of renewal up to 3 years pending funding, available work and successful performance. Supervision Primary supervisor is Dr. David Bonter, co-Director of the Center for Engagement in Science & Nature, Cornell Lab. Supervision Exercised Supervision of undergraduate student employees and research students for projects leading to senior theses and peer-reviewed publications. Location In-person work based at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology in Ithaca, New York is required to facilitate collaborative research across the team and to effectively recruit and mentor student researchers. Hybrid flexibility will be considered (e.g., in the office 3-4 days/week, and/or flexibility in work location within NYS for 1-2 months/year). To Apply Please apply via Academic Jobs Online: https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/31619 Qualified candidates should submit a 1-page cover letter, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references via the website. Applications will be reviewed starting March 9, 2026, continuing until a suitable applicant is identified. Pay Range Refer to Posting Language 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. 2026-02-04 If you apply for this position please say you saw it on Bioloxy

Research Associate
Cornell Lab of Ornithology
Center for Engagement in Science & Nature
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
Cornell University
Ithaca, New York, USA

Description

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.

The Cornell Lab of Ornithology is a unit within Cornell-CALS and is a world-leading center for research and education focused on birds and nature. The Cornell Lab’s mission is “to interpret and conserve the earth's biological diversity through research, education, and participatory science focused on birds.” One of six centers at the Lab, the Center for Engagement in Science & Nature engages the public by gathering biological information at large spatial scales while creating dynamic educational content and web applications through which the public can better understand the natural world. The Cornell Lab is widely viewed as a global leader in the field of public engagement, and in particular, participatory science, managing exemplary projects while pursuing methodological innovation for moving the field forward. Two large-scale participatory science projects are housed within the Center: NestWatch (nestwatch.org) has been gathering data on reproductive success in birds since the 1960s (>860,000 nest records), and FeederWatch (feederwatch.org) engages > 30,000 people annually in collecting protocol-driven data on bird abundance and distribution (millions of records across the U.S. and Canada since 1989).

Position Function

The Lab’s Center for Engagement in Science & Nature seeks a creative, collaborative scientist with experience in analyzing and publishing with “big data.” The successful candidate will contribute to cross-disciplinary research utilizing the Cornell Lab’s extensive biological data sets. The position provides the opportunity for collaboration with the global scientific community, as well as opportunities to engage a talented pool of students from Cornell University.

Specifically, the research focuses on avian reproductive ecology (NestWatch dataset, nestwatch.org) and distribution and abundance (Project FeederWatch, feederwatch.org), with considerable freedom to pursue additional research interests aligned with the Center’s goals. Primary collaborators include the research team in the Center for Engagement in Science & Nature, additional researchers across Centers at the Lab of Ornithology including an extensive network of postdoctoral scholars (~25), researchers at Cornell University, and researchers external to the University. An essential job function is interfacing with the broader research community to publish findings and ensure that the Lab’s data resources are used to their full potential.

While this position focuses on ecological research questions, the Center is heavily engaged in social science research focused on the practice of engaging the public in participatory science. Engaging in social-ecological research and collaboration with interdisciplinary research teams is key to success in this position. Key collaborators within the Center include Dr. David Bonter (co-Director), Dr. Tina Phillips (Assistant Director, social scientist), Dr. Olivia Sanderfoot (Leader, Project FeederWatch), Robyn Bailey (leader, NestWatch), and Kim Savides (ecological research assistant).

Many opportunities also exist to mentor and engage Cornell undergraduate students in publishable research.

Anticipated Division of Time

Research (65%)
Conduct and publish scientific research utilizing the Center’s and the Lab’s open access, big data resources, focusing on ecological research questions. Contribute and collaborate with researchers internal and external to Cornell to ensure publication of high-quality research in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Develop analytical approaches and R packages promoting best practices in analysis of the Lab’s data sets. Serve as a key point of contact for the members of the global research community who are interested in our platforms and data resources. Collaborate with the social science research team on research focused on the human dimensions of the Center’s work. Baseline expectations for research productivity are two first-authored papers per year in strong journals, plus additional co-authorships resulting from collaborations and mentoring. Attendance and presentation of research and workshops at relevant scientific conferences is expected (2-3 / year).

Mentoring (15%)
Independently and in collaboration with the Center’s co-Director, mentor Cornell University undergraduate students in conducting research leading to senior theses and peer-reviewed publications with the students as lead authors. Identify projects amenable to student training and success. While much of the work should focus on utilizing the Lab’s existing data resources, developing additional projects in ecology and ornithology is encouraged.

Funding activities (10%)
Partner with Lab and external collaborators to seek grants (Cornell, state, federal or foundation) to support research initiatives. Work with the Cornell Lab’s Advancement team to engage and steward our extensive and generous donor network.

Outreach and Extension (10%)
Work with the Center’s project teams and the Cornell Lab communications staff to disseminate findings to public audiences through the Lab’s online and print communication channels. Other ad hoc duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Requirements

PhD in a relevant field (e.g., ecology, biology, data science, natural resources, behavioral ecology) with extensive knowledge of research and literature in avian ecology. Strong record of publishing scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals. Proven success in mentoring undergraduate research. Mastery of R, strong documentation skills, and willingness to collaborate in the GitHub ecosystem are required.

Preferred Requirements

One or more years of postdoctoral research experience. Grasp of the literature in nesting/reproductive biology and/or foraging ecology. Previous experience with participatory science. Fluent in English, with additional language skills (Spanish or Portuguese) and experience with international collaboration are helpful.

Salary

Commensurate with experience. Hiring range for this title is $80,000 - $82,000.

Appointment

This is a full-time, 1-year term, with possibility of renewal up to 3 years pending funding, available work and successful performance.

Supervision

Primary supervisor is Dr. David Bonter, co-Director of the Center for Engagement in Science & Nature, Cornell Lab.

Supervision Exercised

Supervision of undergraduate student employees and research students for projects leading to senior theses and peer-reviewed publications.

Location

In-person work based at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology in Ithaca, New York is required to facilitate collaborative research across the team and to effectively recruit and mentor student researchers. Hybrid flexibility will be considered (e.g., in the office 3-4 days/week, and/or flexibility in work location within NYS for 1-2 months/year).

To Apply

Please apply via Academic Jobs Online:
https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/31619

Qualified candidates should submit a 1-page cover letter, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references via the website.

Applications will be reviewed starting March 9, 2026, continuing until a suitable applicant is identified.

Pay Range

Refer to Posting Language

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.

2026-02-04

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