Postdoctoral Associate on Land Systems Sustainability

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

Job summary

A leading research institution is seeking a Postdoctoral Associate to focus on land systems sustainability and agrifood resilience. This full-time position involves leading research by utilizing spatial analysis and remote sensing to support communities and farmers in the Northeastern U.S. Candidates should have a Ph.D. in relevant fields and strong programming skills in Python or R. The role offers opportunities to mentor students and publish research. Salary range is $62,232 to $88,745.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated expertise in spatial analysis & GIS and remote sensing for land/water/agricultural applications.
• Strong programming skills in Python and/or R (geospatial stacks, data wrangling, visualization).
• Ability to work collaboratively with community partners and an interdisciplinary team; excellent communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Build geospatial datasets and remote sensing pipelines.
• Integrate crop, hydrologic, and GHG/energy models to quantify trade-offs.
• Create decision-support tools and maps for farmers and policymakers.

Skills

Spatial analysis & GIS

Remote sensing

Programming in Python

Programming in R

Scientific writing

Collaboration skills

Communication skills

Education

Ph.D. in Geography, Environmental Science, or related field

Job description

Postdoctoral Associate on Land Systems Sustainability

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

This full‑time Postdoctoral Associate will lead research at the intersection of crop‑switching, environmental resilience, and agrifood sustainability. The candidate will develop and apply spatial analysis, remote sensing, and modeling to evaluate the technical, environmental, and socioeconomic implications of transitioning to resilient crops in the Northeastern U.S. and comparable temperate regions.

Responsibilities

• Build geospatial datasets and remote‑sensing pipelines.
• Integrate crop, hydrologic, and GHG/energy models to quantify trade‑offs among yield, water, emissions, biodiversity, and more.
• Create decision‑support tools and maps to guide farmers, extension agents, and policy partners.
• Collaborate on co‑production activities with community and stakeholders.

The postdoc will also have opportunities to lead and co‑author high‑impact publications, mentor students, and contribute to grant reporting and new proposals.

Initial appointment is for one year with annual renewal contingent on available work, performance, and funding.

Anticipated Division of Time

• Research & Tool‑building (60%) – Geospatial/RS analytics; model design and validation; reproducible workflows.
• Stakeholder Collaboration (20%) – Co‑develop decision tools; synthesize partner data; occasional site visits across NYS.
• Publications & Dissemination (15%) – Lead/assist manuscripts and conference papers.
• Mentoring & Project Coordination (5%) – Mentor graduate/undergraduate research assistants; coordinate with interdisciplinary research team and partners.

Requirements

• Ph.D. (by start date) in Geography, Environmental Science, Earth Systems Science, Natural Resources, Sustainability, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in spatial analysis & GIS and remote sensing for land/water/agricultural applications.
• Strong programming skills in Python and/or R (geospatial stacks, data wrangling, visualization).
• Record of peer‑reviewed publications commensurate with career stage and strong scientific writing skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with community partners and an interdisciplinary team; excellent communication skills.

Supervision Exercised

The postdoc will mentor graduate and undergraduate researchers and may provide functional supervision to research staff and student assistants consistent with CALS guidelines.

How to Apply

Please apply via Academic Jobs Online: https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/30939.

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

Applications will be reviewed as received, continuing until a suitable applicant is identified. Preference will be given to applications submitted by December 15, 2025.

Pay Range

$62,232.00 - $88,745.00

Notice to Applicants

Please read the required Notice to Applicants statement.

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.