Jobs At Cornell

Cornell University, one of the most prestigious institutions of higher education in the United States, offers a diverse range of career opportunities across its sprawling campuses in Ithaca, New York, and other locations. From world-class researchers and educators to administrative staff and support personnel, Cornell University is a hub of academic excellence and innovation. In this article, we delve into the various job roles available at Cornell, the qualifications required, and the benefits of joining this esteemed academic community.
Academic Careers at Cornell

At the heart of Cornell’s mission are its academic pursuits, and as such, the university offers a multitude of opportunities for scholars and educators. These roles are pivotal in shaping the future of countless students and contributing to groundbreaking research.
Faculty Positions
Cornell University seeks distinguished faculty members who are passionate about their disciplines and committed to fostering an environment of learning and discovery. Faculty positions are available across a wide spectrum of academic fields, including but not limited to the following:
- Engineering and Computer Science: Cornell’s College of Engineering and the School of Computing and Information Science offer faculty roles in areas such as robotics, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and sustainable energy systems.
- Life Sciences: The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and the College of Veterinary Medicine provide opportunities for faculty in fields like genetics, ecology, animal science, and biomedical research.
- Humanities and Social Sciences: Cornell’s Arts College and the College of Human Ecology offer positions for faculty in disciplines such as literature, history, sociology, psychology, and design.
- Business and Economics: The prestigious Samuel Curtis Johnson Graduate School of Management and the School of Hotel Administration seek faculty in areas like finance, marketing, hospitality management, and entrepreneurial studies.
Faculty members at Cornell University are expected to engage in teaching, research, and service activities. They play a crucial role in shaping the curriculum, mentoring students, and advancing knowledge in their respective fields. The university provides extensive support for research endeavors, offering access to state-of-the-art facilities and funding opportunities.
Postdoctoral and Research Fellowships
Cornell University is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of scholars and researchers. The university offers a range of postdoctoral and research fellowship programs that provide an opportunity for recent PhD graduates to further their research and gain valuable experience in an academic setting.
- Postdoctoral Associates: These positions are designed for recent PhD recipients to engage in independent research projects under the mentorship of established faculty members. Postdoctoral associates have the opportunity to publish their work, present at conferences, and develop their professional networks.
- Research Fellows: Cornell University hosts a variety of research fellowship programs, each tailored to specific disciplines. These fellowships provide funding and resources for researchers to delve into their areas of interest, collaborate with colleagues, and contribute to Cornell’s research community.
Both postdoctoral associates and research fellows benefit from the rich academic environment at Cornell, which fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and provides access to cutting-edge research facilities.
Administrative and Support Roles

Behind every successful academic institution, there is a dedicated team of professionals working tirelessly to ensure smooth operations and support the university’s mission. Cornell University offers a plethora of administrative and support roles that are crucial to the university’s functioning.
Administrative Staff
Cornell’s administrative staff plays a vital role in managing the day-to-day operations of the university. These roles encompass a wide range of responsibilities, including:
- Student Services: Staff members in this area provide support to students, helping them navigate academic requirements, financial aid, housing, and campus life. They also assist with career counseling and alumni engagement.
- Finance and Budgeting: Administrative professionals manage the university’s financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, and financial planning. They ensure the effective allocation of resources to support Cornell’s academic and research endeavors.
- Human Resources: The HR department at Cornell handles recruitment, employee relations, and talent management. They play a pivotal role in attracting and retaining top talent, ensuring a diverse and inclusive workforce.
- IT and Digital Services: Information technology professionals manage Cornell’s digital infrastructure, providing technical support, developing software solutions, and ensuring the security of the university’s data and systems.
Support Personnel
Cornell University relies on a dedicated team of support personnel to maintain its facilities, ensure campus safety, and provide essential services to students, faculty, and staff.
- Facilities Management: This team is responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of Cornell’s extensive campus infrastructure, including buildings, grounds, and utilities. They ensure a safe and functional environment for all university operations.
- Security and Safety: Cornell’s security personnel work tirelessly to maintain a secure campus environment. They respond to emergencies, patrol the campus, and collaborate with local law enforcement to ensure the safety of the Cornell community.
- Dining and Hospitality: The dining services team provides culinary excellence and hospitality to students, faculty, and visitors. They manage Cornell’s dining halls, cafes, and special event catering, ensuring a delightful dining experience.
- Transportation and Parking: Support personnel in this area manage Cornell’s transportation services, including shuttles and parking facilities. They ensure efficient transportation for the university community and visitors.
Benefits of Working at Cornell
Cornell University offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being and professional growth of its employees. These benefits include:
- Competitive Salaries: Cornell University is committed to providing competitive compensation packages that are commensurate with the qualifications and experience of its employees.
- Health and Wellness Benefits: The university offers comprehensive healthcare plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Employees also have access to wellness programs, fitness facilities, and mental health support services.
- Retirement and Savings Plans: Cornell provides generous retirement plans, including a defined benefit pension plan and a 403(b) retirement savings plan. Employees can also take advantage of tax-advantaged savings options.
- Professional Development: The university recognizes the importance of continuous learning and provides various professional development opportunities, including tuition reimbursement, conference attendance, and access to online learning platforms.
- Work-Life Balance: Cornell promotes a healthy work-life balance through flexible work arrangements, generous vacation and sick leave policies, and family-friendly benefits such as childcare assistance and parental leave.
Additionally, working at Cornell University provides employees with the opportunity to be part of a vibrant academic community, collaborate with renowned scholars, and contribute to the university's rich legacy of innovation and excellence.
How to Apply
If you are interested in joining the Cornell University community, you can explore current job openings on the university’s official website. The application process typically involves submitting a detailed resume or curriculum vitae, along with relevant academic or professional references. For faculty positions, applicants may also be required to provide a research statement, teaching philosophy, and a list of publications.
Cornell University is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from diverse candidates. The university is committed to creating an inclusive environment where all employees can thrive and contribute to the university's mission.
Conclusion

Cornell University offers a wide array of career opportunities for individuals passionate about education, research, and academic excellence. Whether you are an aspiring faculty member, a recent PhD graduate, or a professional seeking to support the university’s operations, Cornell provides a rewarding and enriching work environment. Join the Cornell community and be a part of an institution that values innovation, diversity, and the pursuit of knowledge.
What are the eligibility requirements for faculty positions at Cornell University?
+Faculty positions at Cornell University typically require a terminal degree (usually a PhD) in the relevant field. Additionally, a proven track record of research excellence, teaching experience, and a strong publication record are highly regarded. The university also values candidates who demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
How can I stay updated on job openings at Cornell University?
+Cornell University regularly updates its job openings on its official website. You can set up job alerts or subscribe to their email notifications to receive updates on positions that match your interests and qualifications. Staying connected on professional networking platforms like LinkedIn can also provide insights into new opportunities at Cornell.
Are there opportunities for career growth and advancement at Cornell University?
+Absolutely! Cornell University recognizes and values the importance of career growth and development. The university offers various opportunities for professional advancement, including internal promotion, leadership development programs, and access to a wide range of training and educational resources. Employees can also explore lateral moves or transfers within the university to expand their skill sets and enhance their career prospects.