Research Associate Genome Editing (Molecular Biology) (St. Louis, MO, US) en SEEDING THE FUTURE - KWS SAAT SE & Co. KGaA

Join our team at the KWS Gateway Research Center where we work to strengthen our position in the global plant research community and be an integral part of the KWS network of breeding stations and research activities. We are seeking to recruit at the earliest opportunity a Research Associate for our Genome Editing team on a permanent, full-time basis in St. Louis, MO, USA.

What are we looking for? The Research Associate Genome Editing Molecular Biology has multiple technical skills and can perform assignments that develop their professional work knowledge and abilities. The position demonstrates experience with molecular analysis of cells, tissues, plants, and cloning, and the ability to identify problems and find solutions in the areas of expertise. The Research Associate Genome Editing Molecular Biology will apply their knowledge and skills to make a difference in seed technology research, advance knowledge, and improve product development efficiency resulting in a competitive advantage for KWS.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Conduct molecular design and molecular experiments with accuracy while meeting requirements, including primer design, CRISPR gRNA design, DNA/RNA isolation, various PCR experiments (e.g., qPCR, ddPCR), sequencing library prep., gene cloning with various methods, etc.
• Maintain accurate, detailed, timely and organized records of experimental conditions, data and results.
• May contribute to analysis of technical data and adaption of routine methods within a limited scope depending on technical competence.
• Optimize specific work processes as needed for specific methods and practices by assisting in the identification of problems and providing input on potential solutions under close supervision.
• Efficiently meet timelines and adapt approaches to match shifting demands under close supervision.
• Operate, maintain and clean equipment, maintain and/or order supplies and manage waste.
• Build partnerships within technical programs and work collaboratively with others to meet shared objectives.
• Comply with work instructions that outline methods and practices to be applied.
• Ensure Company handbook, Rules, Guidelines, Procedures and safety policies are followed and personal protective equipment is used correctly.
• Meet attendance requirements.
• Other duties as assigned.

SKILLS AND COMPETENCES:

• Bachelor’s Degree in a related field, or equivalent; or other technical qualification with 2 years of laboratory experience.
• Demonstrated experience in DNA/RNA isolation and using PCR methods to characterize tissues and cells (e.g., qPCR, ddPCR, Sanger sequencing).
• Demonstrated experience in gene cloning, seamless cloning methods such as Golden Gate, In-Fusion, are preferred.
• CRISPR-Cas related skills and knowledge are preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to multi-task and efficient time management.
• Ability to communicate and write clearly, concisely and accurately in English.
• Ability to follow protocol, visually observe and clearly document and maintain laboratory records to generate reproducible results.
• Demonstrated interest in participating in new technology development striving for technical excellence through collaboration, self-improvement, and an open mind.
• Must have the legal right to work in the United States without sponsorship.

OUR OFFER: 

• A salary between $25,10 and $31,37 per hour.
• Based on factors such as geographic location and candidate qualifications, actual base pay is determined when an employment offer is made.
• Health, dental, vision benefits.
• Pension plan and 401(k) with employer match.
• Flexible paid-time-off (PTO).
• Professional training and development opportunities.

SCOPE OF RESPONSIBILITY:

• Member of project team(s), not accountable for a project or workflow.
• Over 90% of working time for hands-on work in the lab, or for computational research.
• No direct reports.
• Secure observance of regulations on context of occupational safety, compliance, know-how protection and internal QM regulations.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. The employee must frequently lift and move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and move objects up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.