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Cornell University

Horticulture Section- Postdoctoral Associate

Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States, 14850

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Postdoctoral Associate

The lab of Urban Plant Ecology at Cornell University is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to lead research projects. This work will primarily involve conducting large-scale data synthesis projects to better understand the drivers of urban metacommunities and biodiversity patterns. In particular, the lab is interested in understanding the drivers of biotic heterogeneity in urban environments and the spatial/temporal dynamics of these drivers. This will involve working with pre-existing data collected by the lab, as well as collaborator data and publicly available data from an array of cities. As such, the postdoc should have strong experience working with large datasets, modeling ecological data, and maintaining national/international collaborations. The postdoc will have a relatively high degree of autonomy in developing research projects and directions, in concert with Aaron Sexton, lab PI. If interested, the postdoc could also join in data collection in ongoing field research projects, but this will not encompass a majority of the researcher's time. Opportunities exist for informal mentoring of graduate and undergraduate research students. Start date is expected to be November 2025. This position will be located in Ithaca, New York with the potential of working a hybrid schedule, depending on needs. Conduct independent and collaborative research to meet project goals. Predominantly data synthesis work, but potentially also some field work. (70%) Meet with collaborators and stakeholders to facilitate research projects. (10%) Mentor graduate student research. (10%) Present results at academic/extension and popular seminars. (5%) Other position-related responsibilities (5%): - Participate in general project management - Establish and maintain a safe, productive, and respectful working environment that fosters a culture of inclusivity and teamwork. - Engage in ongoing academic and intellectual life within CALS and Cornell University. PhD in ecology, quantitative ecology, applied statistics, or a related field with strong background in data science, statistics and model development. Ability to conduct original research, from conception to completion/publication. Knowledge of ecology and ecological systems. Knowledge of urban ecosystems and urban ecology is preferred. Experience with R, Python, or other programming languages, as well as QGIS/ESRI spatial software. Experience working with large datasets and platforms such as GBIF, iNaturalist & GitHub. Experience with field ecology and field-collected ecological datasets is preferred. Experience mentoring graduate students is preferred. Strong communication skills and proficiency in spoken and written English. This position may supervise students. Opportunities exist for informal mentoring of graduate and undergraduate research students. To apply: Please apply via Academic Jobs Online.