Cornell University
Top university
Just Landed
New Today
Postdoctoral Associate in Equitable Agricultural Research Cornell University in United States
Degree Level
Postdoc
Field of study
Behavioral Economics
Funding
CALS hiring range for this title is $63,480 to $65,000.
Deadline
Dec 15, 2026
Country
United States
University
Cornell University
Apply for this position
Keywords
Suggested positions
About this position
This postdoctoral associate position is based in Cornell University’s School of Integrative Plant Science, Section of Plant Breeding and Genetics, and will be embedded in the Equitable Agricultural Research (EQUAL) Lab. The role sits at the intersection of agricultural research, farmer decision-making, and participatory plant breeding, with work spanning the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and Cornell’s broader transdisciplinary research ecosystem.
The appointed researcher will lead a study of US farmers’ perceptions, preferences, and adoption behaviors around a novel biotechnology product. A major component of the work is the CROPPS project, where the postdoc will design and analyze state-wide surveys in New York and California using behavioral economics approaches to measure risk perception, willingness to pay or accept, and tradeoffs associated with adopting a new biotech product. A second major component is the CO-BREED project, which focuses on motivations and mechanisms for US organic farmer engagement in participatory plant breeding and related breeding programs through a nation-wide survey.
The position is research-intensive and combines method development, field research, data analysis, and writing. The successful candidate will work alongside a graduate student on related projects and contribute to work connected to programmable plant systems, organic breeding networks, and agricultural innovation. The CROPPS collaboration brings together faculty and trainees from the life sciences, engineering, computer science, and social sciences across multiple land-grant institutions, while CO-BREED connects breeding, extension, and farmer engagement around legume and vegetable crops for diverse organic and specialty-crop contexts.
This is an in-person appointment requiring relocation within commuting distance of Ithaca, New York. Cornell describes the role as part of a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment with strong connections to research, education, and outreach.
Funding details
CALS hiring range for this title is $63,480 to $65,000.
What's required
PhD in Behavioral Economics, Agricultural Economics or a similar field is required. Candidates should have experience working with primary data such as national agricultural datasets and/or census data, experience designing, implementing and analyzing surveys with farmers, and experience in quantitative econometric research design and data analysis with a focus on causal inference and agricultural technology adoption. Strong analytical, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously are required. Applicants must be able to travel within the US for fieldwork and have a valid and unrestricted New York State Driver’s License; driving is required and they must be cleared for university business and register with Agile/Fleet Commander upon hire. Preferred qualifications include experience using game-based or product concept testing behavioral methods, engagement with US commodity or specialty crop grower groups, interdisciplinary teamwork with biophysical scientists, and supporting or mentoring graduate students.
How to apply
Apply via Academic Jobs Online at the provided application portal. Submit a short cover letter, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references. Applications are reviewed as received until a suitable applicant is identified.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.