Postdoctoral Associate

About this position

Academic Job DescriptionDepartment of Food Science at Cornell AgriTechPostdoctoral

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 Dr. Ke Wang’s research group in the Department of

Food Science at Cornell AgriTech, Cornell University is seeking a

highly motivated candidate to join exciting collaborative research

projects as a Postdoctoral Associate, to start in Fall 2026/Spring

2027. Candidates with research interests and training background in

bioengineering, molecular biology, metabolic engineering, chemical

engineering, and other related fields are encouraged to apply. The

successful candidate will work in an interdisciplinary and

collaborative team, on research projects focused on precision

fermentation, alternative protein, biomanufacturing and other emerging

topics that shape the future of biotechnology and circular bioeconomy.

The relevant research techniques include aseptic cell cultivation,

bioreactor operation, feedstock pretreatment and characterization,

analytical measurements by LC and GC; experimental design, statistical

analysis, bioprocess simulation through kinetic modeling. Additional

training in genetic engineering and molecular biology is a surplus.

The position is also expected to write manuscripts for publications,

present research findings in conferences, and perform in a fast-paced,

creative, inclusive and team-oriented environment. Experience with

funding acquisition is preferred.

This is an in-person position. The successful candidate will be

expected to relocate within commuting distance of Geneva, NY.

Anticipated Division of Time The position is full-time, and mainly

comprises of research-related activities, including:

• Conducting independent lab work (40%)
• Writing manuscripts for peer-reviewed publications (40%)
• Training students in the lab (15%)
• Supporting grant writing (5%) Requirements (1) Ph.D. degree in bioengineering, chemical engineering, molecular biology or similar fields. (2) Strong academic record: GPA no less than 3.7 (out of 4.0) for graduate studies in a competitive U.S. program or an equivalent program. (3) Strong language proficiency in English. (4) Demonstrated research experience in relevant areas with strong publication records in peer-reviewed journals and oral communication skills through conference presentations. (5) Ability to conduct independent research in a collaborative environment. (6) Have active work authorization upon application. (7) Must have and maintain a valid and unrestricted NY State driver's license and be cleared to cleared to drive for university business. The successful candidate will be expected to drive as a part of this position and register with Agile/Fleet Commander (Does not need to be a Commercial Driver’s License). Supervision Exercised The position will report directly to Dr. Ke Wang and provide support to the current lab in maintaining a safe and inclusive environment, including supporting lab EHS trainings and equipment management. The position is also expected to advise and provide necessary lab training to graduate and undergraduate students. This oversight includes assistance with lab safety standards and protocols, experimental design, execution, and interpretation of results. There are no supervisory responsibilities with this position. To apply Please apply via Academic Jobs Online https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/32790. ; Qualified candidates should submit a CV (including lists of publications), a brief (max. 2 pages) description of research interests and qualifications related to this position, a copy of academic transcripts and contact information for academic references (up to 3). Application package should be emailed as one pdf file to Dr. Ke Wang at kw726@cornell.edu. Please direct any questions about this position to the same email address. Application submitted before October 15th, 2026 will be given review priority. Consistent with Cornell’s practice, appointments to academic positions require candidates to disclose relevant information about their prior employment including whether they have been found to have violated institutional or employer policies related to or governing unlawful discrimination and harassment, academic and research misconduct, or financial misconduct. Applications will be reviewed as received, continuing until a suitable applicant is identified. CALS hiring rate for this position is $63,480. 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.