Seeking an enthusiastic and motivated Research Associate/Plant Biologist to support gene edited soybean research as part of collaborative project between our organization and the Gates Foundation focusing on improving soybean nodulation to enhance nitrogen fixation with goal of increasing crop yield and sustainability.
Compensation Details
Pay Rate: $28.16 per hour
Contract Duration: 12+ Months
Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Job Summary
This is an excellent opportunity for an early career scientist to gain hands-on experience in plant biology, controlled environment experiments, and applied agricultural research while working alongside experienced scientists in a collaborative team environment.
The Plant Biologist/Research Associate will support groundbreaking research aimed at improving soybean nitrogen fixation through gene editing technologies. This work directly contributes to global agricultural sustainability and food security initiatives supported by the Gates Foundation.
💡 Why This Role Matters: As Plant Biologist, you contribute to sustainable agriculture solutions addressing global food security, gain hands-on gene editing and plant research experience, support nitrogen fixation improvements benefiting farmers worldwide, and collaborate on Gates Foundation-funded agricultural innovation.
What You Will Do
As Plant Biologist in Johnston, Iowa, your responsibilities include:
Experiment Support & Planning
- Support project leader and team members in planning and carrying out experiments
- Participate in experiment design discussions and protocol development
- Coordinate with team on scheduling and resource allocation
Soybean Nodulation Assays
- Assist with soybean nodulation assays in controlled environments
- Perform experiment setup ensuring proper growing conditions
- Provide plant care including watering, fertilizing, and environmental monitoring
- Monitor plant health and nodulation development throughout experiments
Data Collection & Sample Preparation
- Collect plant physiological data including growth rates, nodulation counts, and nitrogen fixation metrics
- Measure morphological data such as plant height, root architecture, and nodule size/number
- Prepare tissue samples for molecular analyses including DNA/RNA extraction
- Prepare samples for biochemical analyses measuring nitrogen content and enzyme activity
Data Management & Documentation
- Accurately record experimental data using standard data management tools
- Organize and maintain comprehensive lab notebooks and digital records
- Summarize experimental data using Excel, statistical software, or databases
- Ensure data integrity and traceability throughout research process
Reporting & Collaboration
- Contribute to study reports and experiment summaries
- Participate in team discussions and present findings
- Collaborate with experienced scientists on data interpretation
- Support preparation of presentations and research updates
Qualifications
The ideal candidate for this plant biologist position must possess:
Educational Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Plant Science, Plant Physiology, Agriculture, Agronomy, Biology, or related scientific field
Experience Requirements
- 1+ years of work experience with Plant Biology
Desired Background & Skills
- Coursework, internships, or hands-on experience in plant research, agronomy, or laboratory work is a plus
- Interest in plant trait discovery, gene editing, and sustainable agriculture
- Laboratory experience with molecular biology techniques beneficial
- Experience working in greenhouses or controlled environment agriculture
Professional Competencies
- Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn new experimental techniques
- Good organizational skills for managing multiple experiments simultaneously
- Effective communication skills for collaborating with team members
- Time management abilities to meet project deadlines
- Ability to work well independently and as part of collaborative team
Who Should Apply?
This soybean research position in Iowa is ideal for:
- Early Career Plant Scientists: Seeking hands-on research experience
- Recent Graduates: In plant biology, agronomy, or plant physiology
- Agricultural Research Technicians: Looking to specialize in gene editing
- Plant Biology Enthusiasts: Interested in nitrogen fixation and sustainable agriculture
- Laboratory Technicians: With plant science backgrounds seeking field experience
How to Apply
To apply for this Research Associate/Plant Biology position, submit your application including:
- Updated resume highlighting Bachelor’s degree in Plant Science, Agronomy, or related field
- Details of 1+ year work experience with plant biology
- Coursework or hands-on experience in plant research or laboratory work
- Cover letter expressing interest in gene editing and sustainable agriculture
- Academic transcripts or certificates
- Professional or academic references
Why Join This Project?
This plant biology research position offers excellent benefits:
- Competitive Pay: $28.16 per hour
- Gates Foundation Project: Contribute to global agricultural sustainability initiatives
- Gene Editing Experience: Gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge plant biotechnology
- Career Development: Excellent opportunity for early career scientists
- Collaborative Environment: Work alongside experienced plant biologists
- Applied Research: See direct impact on agricultural sustainability
- Iowa Location: Work in heart of U.S. agricultural research
- 12+ Month Contract: Extended opportunity for skill development
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