Postdoctoral Associate - Microbiology

Zymtronix Catalytic Systems Inc; Town of Ithaca (NY); On-site; USD 62,232 - 88,745; Full time

Job summary

Cornell University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Associate in Microbiology in the Heather Feaga lab. This position investigates ribosome quality control in Bacillus subtilis, combining genetics, biochemistry, ribosome profiling, and high-throughput screens.

The appointee will design independent projects, contribute to publications, train students, and engage in public outreach with the Ithaca Sciencenter.

Qualifications

• PhD in biochemistry, molecular microbiology, or related field.
• Motivated to develop an independent future research program.
• Experience in bacterial genetics and molecular biology techniques.
• Desirable experience in bioinformatics or protein structure.

Responsibilities

• Data Collection, Analysis, and Interpretation of experiments related to ribosome quality control in Bacillus subtilis.
• Writing of scientific papers and manuscripts in collaboration with the scientific community.
• Supervision and training of graduate and undergraduate students; general lab management.
• Communication of results at conferences and with collaborators.
• Public outreach activities in collaboration with the Ithaca Sciencenter.

Skills

Bacterial genetics

Molecular biology techniques

Bioinformatics

Protein structure

Education

PhD in biochemistry, molecular microbiology, or related field

Job description

Postdoctoral Associate - Microbiology

A postdoctoral associate position is available in the laboratory of Heather Feaga at Cornell University. The role focuses on studying the role of ribosome quality control in the model spore‑forming bacterium Bacillus subtilis. The candidate will develop an independent research project to understand how translation stress impacts cell development and may explore multiple lines of research in parallel. Projects typically combine bacterial genetics, high‑throughput genetic screens, biochemistry, and ribosome profiling (ribo‑seq). The associate will also have the opportunity to develop a small outreach project through an ongoing collaboration with the Ithaca Sciencenter.

Anticipated Division of Time

Data Collection, Analysis, and Interpretation (70%)

The postdoctoral associate will design, execute, and interpret all experiments related to the project in collaboration with lab members and collaborators.

Writing of Scientific Papers (10%)

The associate is expected to become an expert in the relevant literature, contribute new ideas, and prepare manuscripts for publication in collaboration with the scientific community.

Supervision (10%)

The associate will participate in general lab management, help train graduate and undergraduate students, and assist other lab members when needed. There are no supervising responsibilities for this position.

Communication (5%)

The associate will present results at scientific conferences and through meetings with internal and external collaborators.

Public Outreach (5%)

The Feaga Lab collaborates with the Ithaca Sciencenter, a hands‑on science museum. The associate will host science workshops at the Sciencenter and assist first‑year graduate students in hosting workshops.

Requirements

• Candidate must hold a Ph.D. at time of appointment in biochemistry, molecular microbiology, or a related field, with relevant research experience.
• Must be motivated to develop their own future academic research program.
• Ideal applicant will be experienced in bacterial genetics and molecular biology techniques and willing to participate in a collaborative research program with frequent mentorship and public outreach opportunities.
• Experience with bioinformatics or protein structure is highly desirable.

Pay Range

$62,232.00 – $88,745.00

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, race, ethnicity 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.