Accepting applications Fully Funded

Cornell Atkinson Postdoctoral Fellowship in Sustainability 2027 | Paid

Last updated Jul 22, 2026

Deadline

2026-10-20

Country

USA

Level

postdoc

Organization

Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability

Field

Sustainability, Climate Science, Energy, Food Security, One Health

Funding

fully funded

Overview

The Cornell Atkinson Postdoctoral Fellowship in Sustainability is a prestigious three-year research program at Cornell University, USA. It supports early-career scholars in conducting interdisciplinary research that addresses global sustainability challenges, specifically in climate risk, energy transitions, food security, and One Health.

Coverage

Fellows receive an annual salary of $65,000, full Cornell University employee benefits, and $12,000 per year for research and travel-related expenses. Fellows also participate in the Sustainability Leadership Program for professional development.

Eligibility

Open to scholars from around the world. Applicants must have received their Ph.D. in a relevant field by the start date (but no earlier than May 1, 2025). Current Cornell postdocs or Cornell Ph.D. graduates are not eligible. Applicants must be able to work full-time in Ithaca, New York.

Requirements

Applicants must secure one PI-eligible Cornell faculty mentor and one external partner organization before applying. Required documents include a project abstract, a research proposal (max 1,000 words), an applicant background statement, an impact statement, an updated CV, and four letters of recommendation (one from the Cornell mentor, one from the external partner, one from the doctoral advisor, and one additional professional reference).

How to apply

Applications must be submitted via the official online portal. All materials, including the project abstract and proposal, must be uploaded, and letters of recommendation must be arranged to be submitted separately by the deadline.

Notes

Fellows must maintain primary residency in Ithaca, New York. Hybrid or remote appointments are not permitted. Visa sponsorship guidance is provided by Cornell International Services for successful applicants.

Source & Verification

Host organization: Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability

Original source: OpportunitiesCircle

Official application page: https://www.atkinson.cornell.edu/cornell-atkinson-postdocs-rfp/

Verify the deadline, eligibility, and document list on the official website before applying.

How to Apply

1

Read the full requirements

Visit the official application page and read all eligibility criteria carefully before investing time in the application.
2

Gather your documents

Collect transcripts, certificates, and references. Official copies may require apostille — start this process early.
3

Request recommendation letters

Contact your referees at least 4–6 weeks before the deadline. Brief them on the scholarship and your goals.
4

Write your motivation letter

Be specific about your goals, why you chose this program, and your plan to contribute to Ethiopia after completing your studies.
5

Proofread and submit early

Submit at least 3–5 days before the deadline. Technical issues are common — never submit on the last day.