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Phenomics Postdoctoral Associate

Breeding Insight

Cornell Institute of Biotechnology

We are looking to hire one researcher with a background in bioinformatics of phenomic data. Strong skills in scripting and pipeline development are necessary, as are proven written and verbal communication skills. Researchers with experience in human, animal, and non-model organisms are especially encouraged to apply.

Join Breeding Insight (BI) at Cornell University and help develop new tools, technologies, and methodologies to support specialty plant and animal breeding programs adopting genomics, phenomics, and breeding support software. Breeding of specialty crops and animals has lagged behind major crops and livestock, though these specialty species together have equal economic value to the major crops and provide valuable nutrition and ?avor to diets. Breeding Insight currently supports USDA-ARS breeding programs for 19 species. One of Breeding Insight’s aims is to accelerate breeding efforts by integrating the use of phenomics (trait analysis) with genomics and natural variation to increase the rate of genetic gain to create healthy, nutritious, and sustainable specialty crops and animals. To accomplish these objectives, the Breeding Insight program integrates a team of USDA-ARS breeders (based at research locations across the US), with a scientific team and a software development team. We are looking for researchers that want to tackle these important technology transfer challenges to democratize access to genomic selection for specialty species.

The successful researcher will work as part of the Breeding Insight program at Cornell University to collaborate with USDA-ARS breeders on a diversity of research projects across multiple breeding programs within USDA. Primary responsibilities for this position include:

• Developing customized image analysis pipelines to extract quantitative phenotyping data for key breeding targets
• Performing statistical analyses and extracting actionable interpretations from phenotyping data
• Preparing reports, manuscripts, and presentations of research results.

There is one position available. This is a one-year term appointment with the possibility of extension contingent upon continued funding and successful performance. The position can be fully remote within the continental United States, hybrid, or in-person in Ithaca, NY.

Qualifications and Education Requirements:

* Ph.D. in Crop Science, Plant or Animal Biology, Plant or Animal Breeding/Genetics, Biological Informatics, Quantitative Genetics, Ag Engineering, or related field.

* Background in bioinformatics of phenotypic data, sensor data, and machine learning.

* Experience in statistical analysis on large data sets, phenomics, computer vision, and image analysis methods. 

*Must be proficient with Python, R, and Linux/Unix systems.

Preferred Qualifications:

* Strong skills in computer scripting and pipeline development.

* Experience in other skill sets including GWAS, linkage mapping, QTL studies, genomic selection, bioinformatics, statistical genetics, and project management are beneficial.

* Excellent written and verbal communication skills, organizational skills, and attention to detail are beneficial.

Benefits and rewards include:

• Comprehensive health care options, generous retirement contributions, access to wellness programs , employee discounts with local and national retail brands, and more.
• Our leave provisions include three weeks of vacation and 13 holidays: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and the day after, and an end of the year winter break from December 25-January 1.
• Impressive educational benefits include tuition-free Part-Time Study and Employee Degree Program, heavily discounted eCornell courses and certificate programs, tuition aid for external education, and Cornell Children's Tuition Assistance Program.

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and CV to Moira Sheehan at moirasheehan@cornell.edu .

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For general questions about the position or the application process, please contact the Recruiter listed in the job posting or email mycareer@cornell.edu .

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Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University’s heritage. We are a recognized employer and educator valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations. Cornell University is an innovative Ivy League university and a great place to work. Our inclusive community of scholars, students, and staff impart an uncommon sense of larger purpose, and contribute creative ideas to further the university's mission of teaching, discovery, and engagement.

2022-10-05-07:00