Research Associate II temporary position – Molecular Biology
Monsanto is a sustainable agriculture company focused on enabling farmers around the
world to produce more from their farms, both large and small. As our climate changes
and population grows, we’re striving to feed an ever growing population safely,
affordably, and with minimal environmental impact.
To meet this need Monsanto has launched the world’s largest effort to develop
naturally-sourced microbial enhancers of plant health, productivity, and fertility. We
believe microbes offer tremendous potential to deliver ecologically responsible and costeffective benefits to crops around the world.
Monsanto is seeking a Research Associate II to join this effort as part of the Microbial
Traits team. Specifically you will join our Molecular Biology Team where you will
perform and manage multiple molecular biology workflows to enable strain identification
and microbiome analysis of environmental samples. You will work as part of a small
dynamic team in a matrix organization with scientists involved in other aspects of
isolation and discovery of microbial product candidates.
In this role you’ll have the opportunity to directly support Monsanto's global
Biotechnology pipeline. We are looking for a talented and motivated individual to assist
with the identification and selection of key Microbial candidates for advancement in the
testing pipeline.On offer is a key position in the identification and selection of product
candidates. We are looking for the talent and motivation needed to be successful.
Responsibilities include:
• Extraction of DNA from environmental, bacterial and fungal species
• Operating automated liquid handling platforms
• Preparation of samples for endpoint PCR and qPCR
• Performing and managing NGS (Illumina) workflows
• Meticulous sample tracking and quality control monitoring
• Data monitoring to facilitate process improvement projects
• Communication with core sequencing facility
Required Skills/Experience:
• BS in biology microbiology, molecular biology or a relevant biological science
• At least 3 years experience working in a molecular biology lab
• Experience with NextGen Sequencing workflows
• Experience with automated liquid handling platforms
• Experience extracting DNA from a variety of sources
• Experience with assay development
• Team player with a strong desire to expand knowledge and new skills
• Outstanding organizational skills
• Excellent communication skills - both written and verbal
• Ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects through completion
• Effective computer skills, including MS Office programs and interaction with databases
Desired Skills/Experience:
• Experience in Microbiology is
• Previous experience with microbiome analysis
• Previous LIMS experience
• General understanding of microbial and plant physiology