BioConsortia is seeking an entry level Research Associate with microbiology and plant biology experience. As a member of the Microbiology team, you will provide technical support for developing and implementing BioConsortia’s plant and microbe interaction assays. This role will focus on understanding the beneficial relationship between microbes and plants using in vivo and in situ assays. Work will revolve around understanding and developing assays that show the direct or indirect plant beneficial effects of microbes applied to plants. The role will also include the use of standard molecular biology techniques to evaluate microbes in diverse systems. You will be part of a growing team within Microbiology with opportunities for professional development.
The successful candidate will be responsible for:
- Identify the presence or absence of microbes on plants using confocal microscopy and molecular biology techniques.
- Assist in developing and implementing assays designed to evaluate microbe performance for a diverse set of beneficial traits.
- Execute established protocols for assessing microbial performance and robustness.
- Supporting general needs of the Microbiology team, including preparing buffers and media; culturing and stocking strains; and identifying strains by sequencing.
- Keeping high quality records for documentation and writing technical reports for internal presentations/interpretations
- Collaborating with an interdisciplinary team of scientists and research associates
- Commitment to learning on the job as projects will evolve quickly
- Supporting a safe, organized, and respectful work environment
The successful candidate will possess the following background and skills:
- BSc or equivalent degree with 1+ year laboratory experience in one of the following areas: Biology, Plant Pathology, Microbiology, Microbial Ecology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or related fields.
- Experience working with plants in a lab-based setting to assay growth and familiarity with greenhouse settings.
- Experience with aseptic technique and bacterial culture.
- Experience with confocal microscopy.
- Familiarity with developing assays to evaluate effects of microbial application to plants.
- Knowledge of basic molecular biology techniques including DNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis.
- Ability to contribute in a fast-paced environment with minimal supervision
- Excellent understanding of good lab practice requirements relating to laboratory operation and environmental health and safety in microbiology laboratories
- Excellent organizational, record keeping, verbal, and written skills.
- Ability to work on cross-functional teams to meet milestones and deadlines
- Must be permanently authorized to work in the USA
Contact: If you have interest or want more information please contact, in complete confidence: careers@bioconsortia.com.