Postdoctoral Associate - Enzyme Engineer

Cornell University embraces diversity and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty and staff of all identities and backgrounds. We strongly encourage individuals from underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply.

Post-Doctoral Associate

Department of Food Science

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Ithaca, NY

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Cornell University embraces diversity and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff of all identities and backgrounds. We strongly encourage individuals from underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply.

Applications are sought for a postdoctoral associate position in the Goddard Research Group, Cornell University, Department of Food Sciences, Biomaterials and Biointerfaces Lab.

Position Function

The postdoctoral associate will conduct research on immobilized enzyme system design for food and agriculture applications, including bioconjugation chemistry, enzyme engineering, expression, purification, and characterization to perform in. The post-doctoral associate will utilize techniques such as: computational and experimental rational design, plasmid construction, analysis of Sanger and Whole Genome sequence data, transformation of vectors into expression systems, Western blot and other characterization methods of engineered proteins. The scientist will also design methods to immobilize enzymes and characterize their performance under conditions of intended use. The scientist is also expected to write manuscripts for publications which detail the findings of the research. The postdoc will be expected to perform in a high-paced, creative, inclusive, and team-oriented research environment.

Anticipated Division of Time

The scientist is expected to spend 100% of their time in enzyme engineering research related to upcycling waste streams and associated lab support activities. The tasks include conducting independent research, leading and advising junior scientists in the lab, writing results into peer-reviewed publications or patent applications, supporting grant writing, and designing new experimental methods.

Supervision Exercised

The scientist will report directly to Professor Goddard and provide support to the current Lab Manager in maintaining a safe, inclusive education environment for lab members, including supporting equipment management and trainings. The scientist will be co-advised in part by our collaborator Professor Nugen. As part of their day-to-day lab duties, the scientist is expected to supervise and advise a team consisting of graduate and undergraduate students. This supervision includes assistance with protocols, adherence to safety standards, experimental design, execution, and interpretation of results.

Required Qualifications:

• Applicants must have a Ph.D. in food science, molecular biology, genetics, bioengineering, or similar field.
• Expertise in enzyme & protein engineering
• Demonstrated experience in molecular/synthetic biology
• Demonstrated use of bioinformatics software and molecular biology tools for data analysis and experimental design
• Excellent written and communication skills
• Ability to conduct independent research in an inclusive, collaborative environment is essential
• Ability to lead a diverse team of graduate and undergraduate students
• Strong publication record
• Experience in grant writing is strongly preferred

Application Materials Required:

Logistics:

Employer: Cornell University

Location: Ithaca, NY

Start Date: TBD

Application Deadline: None. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Length of Appointment: 1 year, with subsequent renewals depending on performance and the availability of funds

Time Commitment: Full time

Contact Information:

Pay Range:

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 (faculty pay ranges reflects 9-month annual salary)

• Unique applicable skills.

Employment Assistance:

Applicants that do not have internet access are encouraged to visit your local library, or local Department of Labor. You may also visit the office of Workforce Recruitment and Retention Monday - Friday between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. to use a dedicated workstation to complete an online application.

Notice to Applicants:

EEO Statement:

Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University's heritage. We are a recognized employer and educator valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations. 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.