Description

Corteva Agriscience is looking for a Senior Research Associate to join the Genome Editing Molecular Characterization team in Johnston, Iowa to support the discovery, characterization, and deployment of CRISPR/Cas genome editing tools. In this lab-based position the successful candidate will perform qPCR and sequencing-associated tasks, including but not limited to DNA/RNA extraction and quantification, next-generation/long-read sequencing library preparation and sequence data processing by using standard pipelines, lab automation, and software. Candidate will be expected to drive technology development and optimization with minimal supervision and to be able to troubleshoot as needed.

Responsibilities – What You Will Do:

• In this fast-paced position, you will need to develop reliable qPCR and NGS assays to help analyze and characterize gene edited events in a high through-put manner.
• Contribute to gene editing experiments by developing PCR assays for the analysis and characterization of template delivered gene insertion events.
• Participate in new technology development or process improvement studies – activities include experimental plans, testing of hypothesis, making observations, data collection and analysis.
• Provide technical support and conduct experiments with a respectful, collaborative, and positive team spirit.
• Follow company safety policies, protocols, and procedures, and ensure a safe working environment for self and team members

Qualifications

• Master of Science degree in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Plant Science, Plant Genetics, or related disciplines with industry related experience in a molecular biology laboratory or diagnostic laboratory setting or, Bachelor’s degree with at least 5 years of industry experience will also be considered.
• Preferred experience with genome editing applications (SDN1, SDN2, and SDN3) and molecular characterization of row crops with additional proficiency to troubleshoot molecular biology processes, assays, and applications.
• Preferred experience with Geneious or similar DNA/RNA diagnostic software program is strongly preferred.
• Proficiency in DNA/RNA isolation, PCR, qPCR, ddPCR, NGS, and data analysis from these techniques are essential.
• Participate in new technology development or process improvement studies – activities include experimental plans, testing of hypothesis, making observations, data collection and analysis.
• Experience with high-throughput laboratory automation would be helpful.
• Proven abilities in developing and optimizing assays for reliable use within a pipeline.
• Proven ability to maintain complete, accurate and timely records of experimental data and procedures.
• Demonstrated critical and creative thinking and problem-solving skills are essential needs for this position.
• Strong written and verbal communication to effectively document results and collaborate with colleagues.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment while also demonstrating independent problem-solving skills.
• Must be proficient with Microsoft Office software, and databases and/or LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) (Benchling preferred) systems.

VISA sponsorship is not available for this position.

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Benefits – How We’ll Support You:

• Numerous development opportunities offered to build your skills
• Be part of a company with a higher purpose and contribute to making the world a better place
• Health benefits for you and your family on your first day of employment
• Four weeks of paid time off and two weeks of well-being pay per year, plus paid holidays
• Excellent parental leave which includes a minimum of 16 weeks for mother and father
• Future planning with our competitive retirement savings plan and tuition reimbursement program
• Learn more about our total rewards package here – Corteva Benefits
• Check out life at Corteva! www.linkedin.com/company/corteva/life

Are you a good match? Apply today! We seek applicants from all backgrounds to ensure we get the best, most creative talent on our team.