Temporary Research Support Specialist I
Cornell University
Temporary Research Support Specialist I
The Opportunity
This full-time research position is located within the Department of Natural Resources and Environment. The project aims to advance a critical institutional analysis of Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (MRV) applied to GHG emissions reductions in agriculture as part of our U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA-Acres)-funded project on carbon governance and digital agriculture. This person will conduct research on emerging developments in remote sensing, computer science, biogeochemistry, carbon governance, and finance that support visions of cost-effective and reliable “natural climate solutions”. The work involves attention to technical and political debates regarding carbon accounting and the assumptions embedded in decarbonization of agrifood value chains and pursuit of carbon offsets from farmland. This person will conduct empirical analysis at the intersection of technological innovation, political economy, agriculture, and carbon governance. Social scientists interested in technology, agtech innovation ecosystems, regenerative agriculture, and global environmental change are encouraged to apply. A broad range of methodological orientations are relevant. Successful applicants will have a PhD in a relevant field (PhD must be completed at the start of the appointment), a critical and interdisciplinary orientation, and a strong publication record (relative to career stage).
This person will work closely with Steven Wolf. This work is linked to the Cornell Institute for Digital Agriculture - https://digitalagriculture.cornell.edu/ and NASA-Acres - https://www.nasaacres.org/, both of which present great opportunities for intellectual engagement and pathways to impact. The person hired into this position will have an opportunity to develop and pursue a professional development plan to advance their continued growth. Questions about the position can be directed to Steven Wolf, saw44@cornell.edu.
Anticipated Division of Time: 90% research and 10% of dissemination of results, other outreach activities, and miscellaneous tasks. This is a full-time position at 100% FTE. This is a one-year term appointment that is contingent upon available work, funding, and performance.
While position responsibilities vary, every member of our community is expected to foster a culture of belonging and a healthy work environment by communicating across differences; being cooperative, collaborative, open, and welcoming; showing respect, compassion, and empathy; engaging and supporting others regardless of background or perspective; speaking up when others are being excluded or treated inappropriately; and supporting work/life integration of oneself and others. Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position and relocation assistance will not be provided for this position.
About the College, School, Unit or Department
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.
What We Need
- PhD in a relevant field (PhD must be completed at the start of the appointment),
- Exceptional written and oral communication skills in English
- A critical and interdisciplinary orientation
- Strong publication record (relative to career stage)
- Experience incorporating the perspectives of multiple communities.
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Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
Relocation assistance is not available for this position.
Cornell is an equal opportunity employer. For more information, visit hr.cornell.edu/eeo.
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2025-07-21