Entry Level Biologics Researcher
JOB-10045380
Anticipated Start Date
December 1,2025
Location
Chesterfield, MO
Type of Employment
Contract
Employer Info
As a global leader in agriculture enterprise, our client is recognized for their multiple brands and renowned reputation. Their research and development teams combine knowledge and ingenuity to create the most innovative ideas. With their cutting-edge products, they have a common goal: improved quality of life for all.
Job Summary!
If you're interested in an Entry Level Biologics Researcher job, then this is the best role for you! We are seeking a motivated and skilled Biologics Research Associate to join our R&D team for a one-year discovery project focused on screening corn germplasm for arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi colonization. This role combines plant biology, microbiology, and molecular biology to advance understanding of plant-microbe interactions through lab, greenhouse, and field research. It’s an exciting opportunity to contribute to innovative biologics research and help drive the future of agricultural innovation.
Job Description
- Greenhouse Trials: Assist with greenhouse trials to evaluate the performance of corn inoculated with microbial treatments. Responsibilities include planting, maintaining fertilization regimes, supporting measurements, and performing destructive harvesting of plants.
- Microbial Applications: Utilize basic microbiology techniques to grow, quantify, and apply microbial inoculum for plant inoculation.
- Field Sampling: Travel to field sites and collect root samples from diverse corn germplasm.
- Molecular Biology: Conduct standard molecular biology techniques, including DNA extraction, quantification, and DNA amplification (e.g., qRT-PCR).
- Bioinformatics: Aid in the detection and analysis of target gene variants across corn germplasm.
- Microscopy: Evaluate microbial colonization in plant roots using standard and advanced microscopy methods such as histochemical staining and fluorescence imaging.
- Data Analysis & Presentation: Participate in data collection, analysis, and sharing results with stakeholders across R&D functions.
- Cross-Functional Support: Provide additional support to team members conducting controlled-environment plant physiology trials or laboratory-based microbiology experiments as needed.
- Lab Safety & IP Compliance: Ensure adherence to laboratory safety protocols and contribute to intellectual property protection efforts.
Skills Required
- Proven experience in at least one — preferably more — of the following areas: plant physiology, beneficial plant-microbe interactions, soil microbiology, and/or molecular biology.
- Experience with microscopy techniques (e.g., fluorescence imaging) is highly desirable.
- Strong scientific background in biologics or related fields, with the ability to integrate interdisciplinary approaches to solve complex research challenges.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic research environment.
- Proactive and adaptable mindset, with a commitment to team success and achieving project goals.
Education/Training/Certifications
- Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree with at least 4 years of relevant experience, or Master of Science (M.S.) degree with a minimum of 1 year of relevant experience, in Plant Physiology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or a closely related field.
Additional Requirements
- Must pass a drug screening and criminal background check
- Shift: 08:00 AM
Pay Rate/Salary
- Estimated Salary: $27.00 to $35.18 per hour based on qualifications.
"We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws."