Postdoctoral Fellow Position SPRING 2027

Plant-Insect-Microbe Interactions, Molecular Biology, Chemical Ecology

Cornell University, Ithaca, NY

Summary: The Casteel lab at Cornell University seeks a highly self-motivated and driven postdoctoral fellow to unravel the genes, proteins, and metabolites mediating microbe-induced changes in plant physiology and stress resilience. Current focuses within this framework include understanding the signals mediating microbiome-mediated aphid and virus resilience. However, the fellow will be able to drive significant innovation within the project's framework and propose experimental approaches that align with their specific research interests and long-term goals. In addition to research, the fellow will have the opportunity to mentor undergraduates on research projects and conduct outreach in support of organic farming and soil health initiatives. This position offers an exciting opportunity for individuals with a background in plant-insect interactions, plant biology, molecular ecology, microbiology, chemical ecology, and/or plant genetics. 

 Start date: Spring 2027

About Ithaca: The Casteel lab is located at Cornell University in gorgeous Ithaca, NY. Situated in the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York, Ithaca has an ample waterfront fed by over 150 local waterfalls, excellent fall color, hiking, and water trails. The downtown area of Ithaca boasts a pedestrian mall featuring locally owned businesses, world-renowned vegan and vegetarian dining, and a year-round farmers market. 

Required Qualifications:

  • Experience working with plants in Ph.D. 

  • Less than two years since obtaining a Ph.D. with a focus on plant-insect or plant microbe interactions, plant-associated microbiomes or biotic/abiotic stress. 

  • Enthusiastic, strong work ethic, positive attitude, and willingness to work with diverse teams.

  • Aptitude for organization and multitasking, capacity to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary and interactive research environment

  • Excellent oral and written communication skills (experience in grant writing preferred).

  • Experience and willingness to mentor early career scientists, including graduate and undergraduate students. 

Salary & Benefits: Starting at $63,480-$67,000/year plus a generous benefits package valued at $24,800/year. This is a full-time, 100% in-person, 12-month position with the possibility of renewal for one additional year, pending performance evaluation and funding.   The fellow will have access to research funds for their project and travel funding to cover attendance at one national conference each year to promote interdisciplinary research and engagement. Fellows are additionally supported by Cornell’s Office of Postdoctoral Affairs.

How to apply: Interested applicants should apply by December 15, 2026 at: https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/32027

Please include a single PDF that includes: 1) a one-page statement of interest in the position, past research experience, and outline of future research goals, 2) a CV, and 3) contact information for three references. Please use the following subject line for the "Postdoc Application 2026" in any emails about the position.