Are you a recent PhD ready to turn rigorous research into real-world sustainability impact? The Cornell Atkinson Postdoctoral Fellowship in Sustainability funds highly motivated early-career scholars to work at the nexus of academic research and impact, mentored by a Cornell faculty host and an external partner organization.
About the Fellowship
Unique among postdoctoral fellowships, the Cornell Atkinson Postdoctoral Fellowship in Sustainability funds highly motivated recent PhDs to conduct projects under the mentorship of a Cornell faculty host and an advisor from an external partner organization. Fellows hold appointments at Cornell University for up to three years, and each fellow receives individualized and cohort-level support, including the Sustainability Leadership Program's workshops in professional development, career strategy, communications training and collaborative leadership. The Fellowship offers a unique opportunity to engage at the nexus of highly rigorous academic research and real impact in sustainability, working with both a Cornell faculty mentor and a partnering external organization.
About the Cornell Atkinson Center
🌍 Cornell Atkinson is the hub of sustainability research at Cornell University, advancing solutions that ensure people and the planet not only survive but thrive. Its community of nearly 800 Faculty Fellows, representing all of Cornell's colleges and schools, works across disciplines to tackle the most pressing challenges in climate risk, energy transitions, food security and One Health, supported by 16 staff experts.
📈 Since its founding in 2010, Cornell Atkinson has disbursed over 1,200 research awards, investing over $51 million in sustainability research, and it hosts more than 50 gatherings annually to catalyze collaboration and accelerate sustainable solutions.
🌐 Still open beyond this deadline: Internship in 🇦🇹 Austria – Transport Sales Manager at an International Logistics Company → https://youthworkshub.org/20444
Who Can Apply
🎓 Graduate students who have received, or will receive, their Ph.D. within two years prior to the start date of their research.
🔬 Research must be aligned with Cornell Atkinson's four thematic areas: climate risk, energy transitions, food security and One Health.
What's Offered
💶 Fellowships are 3-year, 12-month appointments at Cornell University, providing a salary of $65,000 per year, full Cornell employee benefits, and $12,000 per year for research- and travel-related expenses.
🏡 Postdocs must maintain primary residency in Ithaca, New York, for the duration of the appointment and spend the majority of their time on campus in order to participate in Cornell Atkinson activities. Hybrid and remote appointments are not permitted.
🎓 Another one open later: Scholarship in 🇿🇦 South Africa – One Young World Leading Scholarship → https://youthworkshub.org/20069
Key Dates
💻 Information Session #1: 5 August at 3 p.m. ET.
💻 Information Session #2: 10 September at noon ET.
🗓️ Applications and letters of recommendation due: 20 October 2026 at 5 p.m. ET.
How to Apply
Submit your proposal packet as a PDF through the online application form, and request your four references to send their letters directly to the programme email by the application deadline. The form can be saved as a draft but cannot be edited after submission, and late or incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
Deadline
📅 20 October 2026 (5 p.m. ET)
Links
🔗 Call for Applications: https://www.atkinson.cornell.edu/cornell-atkinson-postdocs-rfp/
🔗 Postdoctoral Fellowships page: https://www.atkinson.cornell.edu/grants/postdocs/postdoctoral-fellowships/
🔗 Sustainability Leadership Program: https://www.atkinson.cornell.edu/education/postdoctoral-scholars/sustainability-leadership-program/
🔗 Application form: https://forms.monday.com/forms/31b738dc2ef46a9a560be468acca4b30?r=use1
🔗 Contact email: atkinson-postdoc@cornell.edu
