Postdoctoral Associate in Microbiology

Cornell University

The Johnson lab is seeking to welcome a postdoctoral research associate to the group who specializes in microbiome science with an emphasis on host-microbe interactions. The ideal candidate will bring expertise in microbial ecology and microbiome sequencing and/or microbial metabolomics.

This researcher would work across multiple projects that aim to understand the precise mechanisms that define how infant diets contribute to gut microbial metabolism with opportunities to explore diet-microbiome-host interactions across multiple systems.

Main responsibilities would include:

  • Designing and executing experiments to interrogate host-microbe interactions.
  • Analyzing and interpreting microbiome sequencing and/or metabolomics data.
  • Developing novel computational or analytical approaches to characterize microbial community structure and function.
  • Working with graduate students.
  • Manuscript preparation.
  • Potentially following up on observations in research models depending on the interest of the individual.

About the Johnson Lab

The Johnson lab sits in the Division of Nutritional Sciences and is a leader in coordinated efforts to support research excellence in the Microbiome Sciences at Cornell University.

The lab focuses on understanding how early-life nutrition shapes the gut microbiome and its metabolic output, using a combination of microbiome sequencing approaches, mass spectrometry-based metabolomics, and research models of host-microbe interactions (including gnotobiotic systems).

The lab's work spans from mechanistic studies of microbial metabolism to translational questions about how diet-microbiome interactions influence infant health and development.

The candidate would have access to a rich interdisciplinary scientific community that spans multiple departments and colleges, as well as state-of-the-art analytical instrumentation and computational resources.

Required Qualifications

  • A PhD in microbiology, microbial ecology, molecular biology, biochemistry, chemical biology or any relevant fields with a dissertation that includes a focus on host-microbe interactions, microbial community analysis, or microbial metabolism.
  • Demonstrated expertise in one or more of the following:Experience designing and conducting experiments that probe the relationship between microbial communities and their host environment.
    • Microbiome sequencing data analysis (shotgun metagenomic, and/or metatranscriptomic).
    • Microbial metabolomics.
    • Microbial genetics.
  • Strong record of scientific productivity, including peer-reviewed publications.
  • Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive and equitable working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members.
  • Strong written communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with computational tools for microbiome sequencing analysis (e.g., HUMAnN, MetaPhlAn, or similar).
  • Proficiency in programming languages for data analysis (e.g., R, Python).
  • Experience with mass spectrometry-based metabolomics approaches, including LC-MS/MS.
  • Experience operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting LC-MS/MS instrumentation, including:Experience performing sample preparation, including extraction, purification, and derivatization techniques for complex biological samples.
    • Orbitrap Exploris series.
    • Triple quadrupole instruments.
    • HPLC/UHPLC systems.
  • Experience collecting, processing, and analyzing large analytical datasets using appropriate software:Experience integrating multi-omics datasets (e.g., combining sequencing and metabolomics data).
    • Xcalibur.
    • Compound Discoverer.
    • Skyline.
    • TraceFinder.
  • Experience with animal models of host-microbe interactions, including gnotobiotic systems.
  • Experience with microbial culture techniques, including anaerobic microbiology.
  • Familiarity with microbial metabolic pathway reconstruction and functional annotation.
  • Experience handling microbiome/microbial samples and wet lab workflows for sequencing library preparation.
  • Experience working with milk samples or infant/pediatric cohort data.
  • Experience with lipid biochemistry.

Application Process

To apply, please use the following link:

Academic Jobs Online Application Portal

Required Application Materials

  • Cover letter describing the applicant’s interest and research experience.
  • Curriculum vitae.
  • Names and contact information of 3 professional references who will submit their letters directly through AJO when requested.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Pay Range

$62,232.00 - $88,745.00

The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined considering:

  • Prior relevant work or industry experience.
  • Education level to the extent education is relevant to the position.
  • Academic discipline.
  • Unique applicable skills.

Employment Assistance

For general questions about the position or the application process:

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Applicants that do not have internet access are encouraged to visit a local library or local Department of Labor. Applicants may also request an appointment to use a dedicated workstation in the Office of Talent Attraction and Recruitment at the Ithaca campus by emailing mycareer@cornell.edu.

Notice to Applicants

Please read the required Notice to Applicants statement by clicking here:

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Posting Date: 2026-03-23

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